DALLAS — The average gas price in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex dipped slightly compared to one week ago, following a statewide trend, according to a report from AAA.
The AAA report released Thursday stated that the average gas price in Texas fell seven cents to $3.89 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel. However, that price is still $1.26 more per gallon compared to this day last year. Nationally, the average gas price has fallen only five cents to $4.24. Texas has the eighth-cheapest average gas price in the U.S.
The report said the average gas price in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington dropped from $3.95 to $3.83 since last week. March 10 marked the highest average gas price ever in the DFW area at $4.07, AAA's report said.
At $3.83 per gallon, Dallas has the fifth cheapest average gas price in the Lone Star State. The only cities with cheaper gas prices are Amarillo ($3.60), Sherman-Denison ($3.73), Lubbock ($3.76) and Tyler ($3.82).
Texas' highest gas prices trend toward the western part of the state and Panhandle. The top five most expensive gas prices in Texas are in El Paso ($4.04), Midland ($4.01), San Angelo ($3.98), Odessa ($3.97) and Bryan-College Station ($3.94).
Here are some tips from AAA to improve fuel efficiency:
- Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
- Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
- Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.
- Minimize your use of air conditioning.
- Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
- Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.
- Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
- Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
- When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel. Discount Tire, for example, offers free air checks at their shops.
- When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.
For the latest look at gas prices across Texas, visit the AAA website here.