Rajan Wilcox
The cost of car fuel per month is a significant expense for drivers and can vary based on several factors, including location, vehicle type, engine size, and driving habits. The average American driver spends approximately $3,000 annually on gas, according to the American Automobile Association. However, this cost can fluctuate due to changing gas prices and differences in fuel efficiency between vehicles. Factors such as car maintenance, tyre pressure, and the use of fuel-inefficient accessories can also influence fuel costs. Additionally, the choice between traditional gas-powered vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) can impact monthly fuel expenses, with the availability of public charging stations and varying electricity rates across states affecting the overall cost of owning an EV. Understanding these variables is essential for drivers aiming to optimise their fuel budget and explore cost-saving opportunities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average monthly fuel cost for American drivers | $3,000 per year ($250 per month) |
| Cost of fuel for a 300-mile trip in a Corolla | $25 |
| Cost of fuel for a 100-mile weekly trip in the UK | £1,000 per month |
| Cost of charging a 2024 Tesla Model Y Performance AWD EV in Texas | $469 per year |
| Number of public EV charging stations in California | 18,955 |
| Number of people per public EV charging station in Vermont | 1,262 |
| Number of people per public EV charging station in California | 2,056 |
| Average monthly gas costs | Varies by state |
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What You'll Learn
Electric vehicles (EVs) vs. gas-powered cars
The cost of driving varies depending on local gas prices and whether you drive a traditional gas-powered vehicle or an electric vehicle (EV). Gas prices and electricity rates fluctuate and vary by location, so it's essential to check the most recent data for your area.
The average American driver spends about $3,000 per year on gas, according to the American Automobile Association. In contrast, a 2018 study by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute found that the average cost to fuel an electric car was $485 a year, while a gas-powered vehicle cost $1,117. A 2020 Consumer Reports study showed that EV drivers spend about 60% less each year on fuel. Every EV model in every state is cheaper to fill than a gas-powered vehicle. These savings are because EVs are 2.6 to 4.8 times more efficient at travelling a mile than a gasoline internal combustion engine.
However, the upfront cost of an EV is often higher, and insurance costs can also be higher. EVs also depreciate more quickly than gas-powered cars, mainly due to their higher initial cost. This means that, over the first three years of ownership, an EV may be more expensive overall, even though fuel and maintenance costs are lower. For example, the Kona Electric is more costly than the gas version by $2,041 without a tax credit, but $5,459 cheaper with it.
The availability of public charging stations can also impact the cost of owning an EV. While charging an EV at home is generally cheaper than using public charging stations, the price of electricity varies by state. For example, in 2020, Louisiana paid only $0.0751 per kWh, while Hawaii's electric rates were $0.2755 per kWh. Some states, like California, have a large number of public charging stations, but Vermont leads the country in terms of the number of stations per resident.
Overall, while EVs have lower fuel and maintenance costs, the higher upfront cost and depreciation mean that it is complicated to determine whether they are cheaper to own and operate than gas-powered cars over time.
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Fuel-saving tips
The cost of driving varies depending on local gas prices and whether you drive a traditional gas-powered vehicle or an electric vehicle (EV). The average American driver spends about $3,000 per year on gas, according to the American Automobile Association. Here are some fuel-saving tips to keep those costs down:
Choose the right vehicle
When shopping for a new car, look for models that offer the best fuel economy in their class. Driving a smaller car makes a great difference – the fuel cost is about half for a small sedan than for a very large SUV. Similarly, drive with a less powerful engine than you need. Don't pay for an eight-cylinder engine when four cylinders work just fine.
Reduce drag
Placing ornaments, ground effects, aerodynamics kits, and airfoils, such as deck-lid spoilers, increase the car's drag and make it require more fuel. Remove unnecessary and bulky items from your car. It takes more fuel to accelerate a heavier car, and the reduction in fuel economy is greater for small cars than for larger models.
Maintain your car
A well-maintained car is more fuel-efficient. Get regular tune-ups, follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, and use the recommended grade of motor oil. Fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage by as much as 40 percent. Fixing a car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of 4 percent. Make sure your tires are inflated to the right levels. Properly inflated tires can reduce fuel consumption by up to 3 percent.
Adjust your driving habits
Driving more efficiently (like going easy on the gas pedal and brakes) is often the most effective way to reduce your current vehicle's GHG emissions. Avoid prolonged idling in general. If your car will be stopped for more than 60 seconds, shut off the engine to save fuel. When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel. Accelerate smoothly with light to moderate throttle. This allows the automatic transmission to upshift into higher gears sooner, reducing engine rpm and saving fuel.
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Car maintenance
Fuel costs can be a major expense for drivers, with the average American driver spending around $3,000 per year on gas. The cost of fuel varies depending on location, vehicle type, and engine size. For example, a small sedan has about half the fuel cost of a large SUV, and a four-cylinder engine is more efficient than an eight-cylinder engine.
To save on fuel costs, consider car maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently:
Tire Maintenance
- Check your tire pressure regularly, at least monthly, and preferably weekly. Underinflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency. The recommended pressure is listed on a label inside the driver's side door jamb in PSI (pounds per square inch). You can use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure and fill up if needed.
- Rotate your tires every 3,000-5,000 miles to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.
- Keep your spare tire inflated and ready to use.
Oil and Filter Changes
- Change your oil and filter regularly, typically every 5,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer. Oil changes cost around $35-75 and can help prevent engine wear.
- Check for corrosion on the battery terminals and clean them with a wire brush if necessary.
Air Filters
- Replace the air filter when it looks dirty or clogged. Most air filters are made of a white paper-like material and should be white and clean.
- Change your cabin air filter every 12 months or 12,000 miles to keep the air in your car free of allergens and pollutants.
Windshield Wipers
Check your windshield wipers at the change of each season and replace them when necessary. This is an important safety measure and can cost around $50-61 for parts and labor.
Brake Fluid
Check the brake fluid each time you change the oil. If it is dark in color, it may be time to change the brake system.
Additionally, follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, keep the car clean, and address any unusual sounds promptly. Regular maintenance can help prevent major repair costs and keep your car running smoothly for years to come.
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Public transport alternatives
If you're looking for a more active commute, consider walking or cycling to your destination. These options provide health benefits and reduce your carbon footprint. Electric bikes and motorcycles are also available for longer commutes or if you need more speed.
Carpooling is another alternative, where you can share rides with others who have similar commutes, reducing fuel costs and emissions. Car-sharing services are also an option if you only need a car occasionally, helping you avoid the costs of owning a vehicle.
For shorter commutes, human-powered options like push scooters, rollerblades, skateboards, or even kick scooters can be fun and environmentally friendly alternatives.
Finally, if public transportation or active commuting don't suit your needs, consider investing in an alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG), renewable fuels like ethanol or biodiesel, or even hydrogen-powered fuel cells for a more sustainable option.
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Calculating fuel costs
One method to calculate fuel costs is to use a fuel cost calculator. These tools, such as the one offered by Fleet News, consider factors like fuel price, vehicle data, and distance travelled to estimate fuel expenses. You can input your vehicle's miles per gallon (mpg) or look up this information in their dataset. After entering the mileage for your routes, the calculator will provide an estimate of your fuel costs. This can be particularly useful for budgeting and comparing different vehicles' fuel efficiency.
Another approach to calculating fuel costs is to consider the average fuel prices in your region and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. You can multiply the average price per gallon or litre of fuel by the number of gallons or litres your vehicle consumes per mile or kilometre. Then, multiply this by the total distance travelled to get an estimated fuel cost. For example, if your car has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and you drive 500 miles, and fuel costs $4 per gallon, your fuel cost would be $80 for that distance.
Additionally, it's worth considering the overall cost of vehicle ownership, which includes fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, and registration fees. These fixed costs can significantly impact the overall affordability of owning a car. Furthermore, the choice between a traditional gas-powered vehicle and an electric vehicle (EV) can influence fuel expenses. While EV charging costs vary by state or region, tools like the DOE vehicle cost calculator can help estimate the costs of owning and operating an EV compared to a gasoline-powered car.
Lastly, simple adjustments to your vehicle and driving habits can reduce fuel consumption. Ensuring proper tyre inflation, removing unnecessary roof cargo, and avoiding excessive idling or speeding can all improve fuel efficiency. These small changes can lead to notable savings in fuel costs over time. By combining these strategies with the use of fuel cost calculators and considering the overall ownership costs, you can make informed decisions to optimise your fuel expenses.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of car fuel per month varies depending on several factors, including the type of car, distance travelled, fuel efficiency, and local fuel prices. On average, the cost of gas in the US is $3,000 per year, which equates to $250 per month. However, individual costs may differ based on specific circumstances.
The type of car you drive plays a significant role in fuel consumption and cost. Smaller cars, such as sedans, tend to be more fuel-efficient than larger vehicles like SUVs. Additionally, a properly tuned engine can improve fuel efficiency, while extra accessories and decorations may increase drag and fuel consumption.
There are several ways to reduce fuel costs:
- Opt for more fuel-efficient vehicles, such as electric cars (EVs) or smaller engines.
- Maintain proper tyre inflation, as it can reduce fuel consumption by up to 3%.
- Consider alternative transportation methods like walking, biking, public transport, or carpooling.
- Utilize tools like fuel cost calculators to estimate fuel expenses and explore potential savings.
Yes, fuel prices can vary by location and fluctuate over time. For example, fuel prices in Germany may be higher than in the US, and states within the US have varying fuel prices. Additionally, the availability of public charging stations for electric vehicles can impact the cost of operating an EV in different locations.
The fuel consumption of an electric vehicle depends on various factors, including the model, driving conditions, and local electricity rates. Online tools like the DOE vehicle cost calculator can help estimate the monthly fuel costs for specific EV models. For context, charging a 2024 Tesla Model Y Performance AWD EV in Texas costs approximately $469 per year.
