Auto Club: Gas Prices Hold Steady Or Drop Slightly From Last Week

Southern California gas prices dropped slightly for the week in most areas but have risen in the last couple of days as the Middle East conflict continues to constrict oil supplies, according to the Auto Club's Weekend Gas Watch. Today's statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $5.84, down two cents from last week and $1.03 higher than at this time last year. The national average dopped by six cents in a week to $4.03, which is 86 cents higher than on this date last year.

The average price of self-serve regular gasoline in the Los Angeles-Long Beach area is $5.94 per gallon, two cents lower than last week and $1.13 higher than a year ago. In San Diego, the average price is $5.88 - the same price as last week and $1.10 higher than this time last year.

On the Central Coast, the average price is $5.75, down one cent from last week and $1.02 higher than a year ago. In Riverside, the average price per gallon is $5.78, one cent lower than last week and $1.10 higher than a year ago. In Bakersfield, the $5.84 average is the same as last week and $1.11 higher than one year ago.

"As long as world oil supplies are constricted, California pump prices will continue to be volatile," said Auto Club spokesperson Kandace Redd. "Although today's average prices are close to $6 a gallon locally, it's important to know that many stations charge prices that are 50 or 60 cents lower per gallon than the average price. Use an online tool like the free AAA Mobile app to shop around for the best price near you."

The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on April 23, averages are:

The Auto Club recommends these tips for drivers to save money on fuel:

• Optimize your fuel economy with steady speeds, no hard braking, and no "jackrabbit starts."
• Don't haul extra weight in the passenger compartment or trunk, which reduces fuel economy.
• Properly maintain your vehicle and keep tires properly inflated according to the pressure listed in your owner's manual, which will optimize fuel economy.
• Use the recommended fuel for your vehicle, and don't use mid-grade or premium unless it is specifically recommended in your owner's manual. AAA research shows the higher-grade fuel offers no extra benefit for vehicles that aren't required to use it.
• Look into discounts. AAA members who sign up for the Shell Fuel Rewards Program at AAA.com/Shell can save 30 cents a gallon on their first fill-up, and five cents a gallon on all other fill-ups. Other retailers such as grocery stores also offer fuel discount programs, and some credit cards offer gas discounts.
• If your household has more than one vehicle, use the most fuel-efficient one as much as possible.
• Consolidate errands to reduce mileage and avoid driving during peak hours when traffic congestion will reduce your fuel efficiency.