SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, CA. (Pain In The Pass) >> California gas prices are about to flirt with the $5 mark.
Gas prices started the week off with a nearly 30-cent jump and it’s only expected to get worse, experts say.
As of Friday morning, the state average for a gallon of unleaded regular gasoline was $4.82, this is 52% higher than the national average of $3.17, according to AAA.
The problem is that refineries begin their transition to summer blends of fuel and routine maintenance. Other cause is a major refinery being offline in Northern California due to a explosion on February 1, AAA said.
Now, due to a combination of those and other factors, Californians are experiencing higher prices at the pump.
Saturday the average differentiates in different metro areas. They include:
- $4.77 in Los Angeles-Long Beach
- $4.66 in San Bernardino-Riverside
- $4.62 in Apple Valley
- $4.54 in Hesperia
- $4.56 in Victorville
California’s winter blend of gasoline is traditionally cheaper. The summer blend will bring a price increase again, and that transition happens in early April.
But while the gasoline costs remain high, we have a number of tips that can help drivers save when they fill up their tanks.
Drive more slowly, ensure that your tires are inflated correctly. See if your vehicle has an eco-mode button. Get regular maintenance. Avoid driving in heavy traffic. Also, we recommend drivers take advantage of discounts such as the Fuel Rewards Program at the gas stations.
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