Pain at the pump: Michigan drivers squeezed as prices spike

DETROIT – Gas prices across the U.S. have reached a 2.5-year high, and Michigan drivers are seeing the impact at the pump.

Michigan’s average price rose another 12 cents overnight to $3.87 a gallon, nearly $1 more than a month ago, according to AAA.

On Tuesday, some stations in Metro Detroit are charging $4 or more.

“I just drive around, do little jobs for people — and the gas prices are making me not want to do it anymore because they are crazy,” said Tina, a Metro Detroit driver.

Other drivers echoed the frustration. Charlie Oleson, who washes cars at dealerships, said fuel costs are cutting into his earnings.

“It’s a little bit less money in our pockets,” Oleson said.

Diesel drivers are also seeing steep costs, with prices in some areas surging above $5 a gallon. Sean Moore, a truck driver, said filling a large tank can run hundreds of dollars.

“This one has a 90-gallon tank. It cost over $300 to fill it up,” Moore said.

So far, gas prices are still far below Michigan’s record high. In 2022, the statewide average hit $5.22 a gallon, according to AAA.

How drivers can save:

GasBuddy says small choices can help reduce costs:

• Shop around for lower prices.

• Fill up on Sundays, which are often cheaper than midweek.

• Pay with cash when possible to save 5 to 10 cents per gallon.

• Drive more efficiently by easing off the accelerator, using cruise control and leaving a few minutes early.

“Fuel efficiency is really dictated by your foot on your accelerator,” GasBuddy petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan said.

As for when prices will ease, De Haan said it’s not clear.

“There’s really no telling how high we will go. As long as this situation continues, we will continue to see prices advancing,” he said.

GasBuddy also notes supply is shifting from the winter blend to the summer blend as demand rises with spring break travel. Prices could climb through Memorial Day, though how high they go remains uncertain.

AAA also offers a “Gas Cost Calculator” to help budget for trips.