Driving Tips & Hints for Low Vision & Disabled Drivers

See Me Drive > Low Vision Driving > Saving at the Pump | Find the Cheapest Gas Prices

Saving at the Pump | Find the Cheapest Gas Prices

• Buy gasoline in the mornings or late evenings
  Not many car drivers know about this one. Gas is more dense when it is cooler. In other words, it is more concentrated. So the best times to buy gas are at night or early in the morning before the temperature rises. Since gasoline is sold by volume and not by density it's best to take advantage of this little known fact and also enjoy the shorter lines at the gas pump.



• Use regular octane gas
  For many cars, though there are some exceptions, regular octane gas is all you'll ever need as the engine's electronics will help retard knocking... Even if your car specifies premium gas, try the medium grade and see how that works as you may find that it works just fine saving you some money.
  
  To see if your car can run well on regular octane gas take a look at your owner's manual and see what gas they recommend. If regular is explicitly mentioned then you can safely use it and reap the savings. If on the other hand it mentions premium or high octane gasoline then you'll need to experiment. When your car's gas tank is nearing empty, fill up halfway with the next lower grade (medium grade/octane) and keep tabs on how the car runs. If you notice hesitation or hear any pinging or knocking noises immediately go back to premium.



• Don't top off
  Don't be tempted to squeeze more gasoline into your tank. Excess gas will simply evaporate so once the pump clicks off remove the gas nozzle.



• Get that last drop of gas
  We just told you not to top-off, but that doesn't mean you can't get every little bit of gas that you've already paid for. Before removing the nozzle from the car, twist it slightly so that it is upside down and tap a few times. Whatever gas is still there now goes into your tank and not to the next driver. Doing this also prevents the gas trickles that can run down the side of your car or get on your clothes and shoes.



• Tighten the gas cap
  Gas will evaporate if the gas cap is not properly tightened. Tighten till you hear it click a few times. In fact some cars will throw up the "Check Engine" light if the gas cap is not properly tightened so check the gas cap before bringing the car in for costly service. If you loose your car's original gas cap it is strongly recommended that you purchase an original from your car dealer and avoid an after-market one. Remember, Tighten the gas cap after each fill-up!



• Find cheap gas prices in your area
  Get to know and patronize the gas stations in your area and on your commute route that routinely have the best prices. You'll usually find the best gas prices outside the congested urban areas so if you happen to be traveling that way it may be best to wait.



• Consider a gas rebate credit card
  Many oil companies and major credit cards now offer cash rebates on gas so check out the offers as it may save you some money when you buy gas. As an example, this cash back card at americanexpress.com gives you 3% on gasoline purchases.

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Disclaimer

Please understand that not every person with low vision is able to drive. This is a very serious matter that needs to be discussed with those close to you and your low vision doctor. Not only must you have vision good enough for doctors to correct, but you must also be willing to accept the challenge and go through what can be a long and arduous process that can last a year or more. This site is NOT a medical or an authoritative driving site nor affiliated with any and information contained in it does not override professional advice. Every person has different needs and capabilities so use this site merely as a stepping stone and discuss everything with your doctor, DMV official, auto mechanic... first! See the many topics below and feel free to add your driving comments and share your experience. If you know of anyone who would benefit from this site please pass it on to them.