Fuel | AAA Chicago Newsroom

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AAA Chicago’s most recent Fuel Gauge Report estimates that in Illinois, the average regular unleaded gasoline prices increased $.04 in September with an average cost of $4.07 for the month. This price is $.31 higher than last year.

AURORA, Ill., Feb. 4, 2013—Illinois and Indiana drivers aren’t feeling much love for these February gas prices. Both Illinois and Indiana drivers are currently paying on average, $3.62 for a gallon of regular unleaded. This marks the highest price ever for a February start.

Gas price averages for Illinois and Indiana are continuing on a high streak with the highest prices ever for a March start. Illinois and Indiana drivers are currently paying on average, $3.92 and 3.81 respectively for a gallon of regular unleaded. The average price of gasoline has increased 59 cents per gallon in Illinois and 54 cents in Indiana since the beginning of the year, which is the highest price increase through the end of February on record.

AURORA, Ill. (Mar. 26, 2013) - Chicagoland motorists are no strangers to congestion, long commutes and high gas prices. With peak commute times of 44 minutes* each way and gas prices hovering about $4.00 per gallon, selecting the right vehicle can make a commute more enjoyable and lower expenses. For motorists in the market for a new car AAA Auto Buying experts have selected vehicles that go the distance with comfort and performance.

AURORA, Ill., May 1, 2013—Gas price averages for Illinois and Indiana are continuing on a high streak. Illinois and Indiana drivers are currently paying on average, $3.91 and 3.67 respectively for a gallon of regular unleaded. While much of the rest of the U.S. has dropped in prices, Illinois, Indiana and the Midwest prices are increasing. Illinois averages are currently the highest in the continental U.S., and with a price of $4.32, Chicago has the highest city average in the continental U.S.

AURORA, Ill., June 5, 2013—Gas price averages for Illinois and Indiana are continuing on a high streak. Illinois and Indiana drivers are currently paying on average, $4.05 and $3.96 respectively for a gallon of regular unleaded. While much of the rest of the U.S. has dropped in prices, Illinois, Indiana and the Midwest prices are increasing. Illinois averages are among the highest in the continental U.S., and with a price of $4.44, Chicago has the highest city average in the continental U.S.

AURORA, Ill., Mar. 4, 2014 — For those who have been waiting throughout this extreme winter for signs of spring, the slow but steady climb of gas prices as March begins is one of the first indicators. Gas price averages started the year off relatively low due to less driving and decreased demand, but prices are starting to rise as many refineries begin seasonal maintenance. Illinois and Indiana drivers are currently paying on average $3.70 and $3.61 respectively for a gallon of regular unleaded. These prices reflect a rise of over $.30 from just a month ago.

Many motorists choose a gas station based on the location or price, but a recent AAA study reveals there is a difference in fuel quality depending on where you purchase your gas. A new study by AAA reveals a real difference in the quality of gasoline you buy at the pump:

AAA studied TOP TIER gasoline brands, which claim to exceed EPA requirements on detergent levels in gasoline, resulting in reduced engine deposits that can cause fuel economy reductions, increased emissions, and performance issues.
After 4,000 miles of simulated driving, the test engine operating on TOP TIER gasolines averaged 19 times fewer intake valve deposits than when operated on non-TOP TIER gasolines.
Long-term use of a gasoline without an enhanced additive package can lead to reductions in fuel economy of 2-4%, drivability issues, and increased emissions.
The average price difference between the TOP TIER and non-TOP TIER brands surveyed was three cents per gallon over a 12-month period.
For optimal vehicle performance and fuel economy, AAA recommends drivers use a gasoline that meets TOP TIER standards whenever possible.

According to new AAA research, American drivers wasted more than $2.1 billion dollars in the last year by using premium-grade gasoline in vehicles designed to run on regular fuel. With 16.5 million U.S. drivers having used premium fuel despite the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation in the last 12 months, AAA conducted a comprehensive fuel evaluation to determine what, if any, benefit the practice offers to consumers.

After rising at the beginning of January, pump prices are back on the decline in Illinois and northern Indiana heading into February. Illinois prices are averaging $2.28, a decrease from $2.48 a month ago but still up considerably from $1.69 a year ago. Indiana drivers are paying on average $2.07, down from $2.40 a month ago but still up from $1.63 a year ago.

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