Gas prices remain stable

Gas prices in the metro New Orleans area, including the Northshore, have only risen 2 cents per gallon in the last month, offering a bit of stability for motorists and commuters.

Average gas prices for regular are at $2.71 per gallon. Last month at this time, a gallon of regular gas averaged $2.69. However, a year ago, gas was below $2 at $1.957 for a gallon of regular gas.

Other metropolitan areas around the state are slightly higher with prices as follows: Baton Rouge $2.73; Lafayette at $2.75; Lake Charles $2.75 and Shreveport-Bossier City the highest at $2.77.

Diesel prices in the area are $2.91, and range from this lowest cost to a high of $2.955 in Shreveport-Bossier City.

The highest prices are for premium grade gasoline. Costs in the New Orleans area are the lowest in the state, averaging $3.02. The highest in state are in Shreveport at $3.09. Baton Rouge is at $3.04.

The state averages are $2.756 for regular, $2.93 for mid level gas, $3.075 for premium and $2.942 for diesel.

The highest prices for regular gas in the country are in Alaska at $3.52 and Hawaii at $3.55 with the lowest prices in South Carolina at $2.67 and New Jersey $2.69.

The American Automobile Association offers the following tips to improve gas consumption.

Check fluids once a month including: engine oil, which lubricates and cools the engine while cleaning; coolant, or antifreeze, which not only prevents freezing in the winter, but can prevent a boil over in the summer; brake fluid, which is critical to proper performance of the braking system; transmission fluid, which transfers engine power to the wheels, lubricates parts, maintains seals and acts as a coolant; and power steering fluid, which transfers hydraulic pressure to reduce driver steering effort.

Motorists should also be cognizant of the octane level of gasoline recommended for each vehicle as this can affect fuel efficiency.

Other things to check on the vehicle that effects gasoline mileage include the air filter, belts, battery, hoses and tire inflation.

For more information, visit www.AAA.com.