FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Gas prices on the rise, but auto ownership costs don’t have to

Three Rivers, CA, April 1, 2005 –

Gas prices everywhere are going up, up, up.  According to recent news reports, the average price for a gallon of gas in the United States (as of March 31^st) is $2.15, up $.25 in the last six weeks alone.  Sometimes it seems like the only way to save money is to stop driving.  But there are other ways to save money without staying home. 

Some are combating high gas prices by getting a new, more fuel efficient vehicle.  If you go this route, make sure you do your research:

-         The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently updated its crash test ratings.  Visit www.iihs.org to make sure the vehicle you want to buy has a good rating.

-         Visit www.fueleconomy.gov to compare fuel economy and emissions of different vehicles.

-         Auto Insurance prices can vary from model to model, so visit www.InsuranceFusion.com to compare rates from many different companies and find out which vehicle has the lowest insurance cost.

-          You can save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of a car by selecting a model that combines a low purchase price with low maintenance, and repair costs. Ask your local librarian for new car guides that contain this information.

Even if you choose to stick with your current vehicle, you can still save money.  

-         You can save hundreds of dollars a year by comparing prices at different stations, pumping gas yourself, and using the lowest-octane called for in your owner's manual.

-         Slow down!  Fuel economy decreases dramatically at speeds over 60 MPH.

-         According to the US Department of Energy, you can save up to $100 a year on gas by keeping your engine tuned and your tires inflated to their proper pressure.

-         Visit www.fueleconomy.gov for other tips on how to get better gas mileage. 

-         Insurance costs vary dramatically ($400 or more for the average family) from company to company. Visit www.InsuranceFusion.com to make sure you are paying the lowest price possible for your car insurance.

-         Pay off your car loan using a lower cost home equity loan or line of credit.  Home equity loans are tax deductible, and are generally at a significantly lower interest rate than auto loans.

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