AAA Newsroom: Demand Destruction Reigns Supreme as Pump Prices Push Cheaper

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No Immediate Impact to Pump Prices Expected with OPEC+ Historic Global Reduction Announcement

The national gas price average has steadily declined for seven weeks, pushing the average cheaper by 61-cents to $1.86 today. During this timeframe (since late February), U.S. demand for gasoline has decreased 44% to 5 million b/d as gasoline inventories build across the country.

“We are seeing fast and furious gasoline demand destruction. The latest data reveals demand levels not seen since spring of 1968,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Every U.S. region is seeing builds in gasoline inventories and crude storage, which is just driving pump prices even cheaper.”

On Sunday, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus (OPEC+), led by Saudi Arabia, announced historic global crude productions cuts – nearly 10 million b/d in May and June.

“While the production cut is historic, it’s likely to not have an immediate impact on pump prices given the ongoing impact the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have on crude oil prices and gasoline demand,” added Casselano.

At $1.86, today’s national average is 6-cents less than last week, 44-cents cheaper than a month ago and nearly $1 less than a year ago.

Quick Stats

  • The nation’s top 10 largest weekly decreases are: Alaska (-19 cents), Idaho (-17 cents), Wisconsin (-13 cents), Iowa (-11 cents), South Dakota (-11 cents), Arkansas (-11 cents), Wyoming (-11 cents), Minnesota (-10 cents), Utah (-10 cents) and Oregon (-9 cents).
  • The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Wisconsin ($1.30), Oklahoma ($1.40), Ohio ($1.46), Kentucky ($1.51), Michigan ($1.52), Arkansas ($1.53), Indiana ($1.54), Iowa ($1.55), Mississippi ($1.57) and Missouri ($1.58).  

Great Lakes and Central States

Motorists in Michigan and Minnesota are seeing significant savings at the pump on the week, month and year. Both states land on the respective top 10 lists for biggest changes in the country:

State Weekly Difference Monthly Difference Yearly Difference
Wisconsin -13 cents -85 cents -$1.50
Minnesota -10 cents -52 cents -$1.04

With this week’s pump price declines, Illinois ($1.88) is in the only state in the region with an average more than $1.75/gallon. Wisconsin ($1.30) carries the cheapest average in the region and country.

Regional gasoline stocks measure at 60.5 million bbl – the highest levels in 14 months. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports for the week ending April 3, stocks built by 2.6 million bbl. Gas prices will continue to push cheaper in the week ahead even with a number of regional refiners announcing cuts to combat declining demand.

South and Southeast

Florida ($1.84) is the only South and Southeast state with an overage more than $1.75/gallon. Oklahoma ($1.40), Arkansas ($1.53) and Mississippi ($1.57) carry the cheapest averages in the region and land on the top 10 list of states with the lowest averages. On the week, states in the region saw pump price declines for 4 to 11 cents.

Compared to a year ago, motorist in the South and Southeast are seeing significant savings – some pennies away from or more than $1/gallon: Oklahoma (-$1.20), Arkansas (-98 cents), Texas (-97 cents), Tennessee (-97 cents) and Georgia (-97 cents).

The EIA’s latest report shows regional gasoline stock levels at nearly 82 million bbl. That is a nearly 4 million bbl year-over-year surplus during a season that typically sees high volumes of demand. Late last week there was an explosion and fire at Valero’s 135,000 b/d in Meraux, Louisiana. The extent of the damage is unclear, but this type of event would typically put some pressure on local or state prices. However, given the current environment, any loss of production is likely to not have an impact at pumps.

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states are seeing gas prices decrease, but at a slower rate as compared to neighbors in the South and Mid-West. On the week, these states saw the largest declines in the region: Washington, D.C (-8 cents), Vermont (-6 cents), Connecticut (-6 cents), Rhode Island (-6 cents) and West Virginia (-6 cents). Gas prices now range from as cheap as $1.71 in North Carolina to as expensive as $2.25 in New York.

On the month, motorists in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states are seeing a savings at the pump between 27 to 49 cents. Vermont (-49 cents) and Maine (-45 cents) have the largest month-over-month difference.

Gasoline stocks continue to build in the region according to the latest EIA data. For the second week stocks saw a significant increase. This time 4.6 million bbl to push total levels to 70.5 million bbl – which is the highest level recorded by the EIA for the region in decades. As motorists in the region continue to stay at home, especially with the Center for Disease Control urging residents of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to refrain from non-essential domestic travel, the region can expect to see  pump prices push cheaper as stocks to continue to increase.

Rockies

Three states in the Rockies region now have averages less than $2/gallon: Wyoming ($1.98), Montana ($1.90) and Colorado ($1.85). With a 17 cent decrease on the week, Idaho ($2.02) is close to joining the sub-par $2/gallon list. The state also saw the largest decrease in the region and the second largest in the country. Motorists in Utah ($2.17) are seeing gas prices decline, just not as fast as neighboring states.

For a second week, gasoline stocks increased. Total levels are now at a very health 9.4 million bbl – one of the highest measures on record. Stocks built as people are staying at home. Which is a reason regional refinery utilization is down to 71%, an unusually low rate reported by the EIA. Gas prices will continue to push cheaper, but the rate could slow at which they are decreasing.

West Coast

The West Coast region is seeing significant decreases despite carrying some of the most expensive averages in the country. On the week, Alaska (-19 cents) saw the largest decline in the region and the country. Hawaii ($3.24) and California ($2.87) remain the most expensive markets in the country. Washington ($2.59), Oregon ($2.54), Nevada ($2.45), Alaska ($2.21) and Arizona ($2.28) follow.

According to EIA’s latest weekly report, total gas stocks in the region increased from 34.06 million bbl to 34.9 million bbl last week. The increase in supply, alongside low crude prices and demand, will likely help to push pump prices lower in the region this week.

Oil Market Dynamics

At the end of Thursday’s formal trading session, WTI decreased by $2.33 to settle at $22.76 per barrel. Crude prices were volatile last week, during the run-up to OPEC’s historic agreement with its allies, including Russia. The group met to discuss global crude production cuts of up to 9.7 million b/d for May and June 2020. Under the new production reduction agreement, OPEC and its allies expect total global oil cuts to amount to more than 20 million b/d or 20 percent of global supply. Effective May 1, the production cuts are expected to ease in June, but some restrictions will remain in place through April 2022.

Crude prices will likely remain volatile this week, as the market assesses if the production cuts are sufficient to hold back growing global crude inventories as COVID-19 continues to push down demand.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

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Carcare.org Blog: Keep Maintaining Your Vehicle Even If It Sits Idle

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With a majority of vehicle owners living in areas of the country that have stay-at-home orders, many vehicles may be sitting idle for days or weeks at a time. The non-profit Car Care Council recommends starting your car at least once a week and keeping up with routine auto care to help prevent potential maintenance issues.

“Just as it is recommended that people stay active during this time of social distancing, your car should get some activity as well,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “If your vehicle sits idle for too long, the battery could die, the tires can develop flat spots and the engine oil may start to deteriorate. Just a short solo drive once a week and a little car care will keep your car running efficiently and safely.”

When starting your car weekly, let it run for at least five minutes. If the vehicle is started in a garage, make sure the garage door is open and there is plenty of ventilation. In addition, the Car Care Council suggests monitoring the following areas of your vehicle if it sits idle for long periods of time.

Battery – Today’s vehicles have several computers that are always in operation, so if a car sits too long without recharging, the battery could die within a couple of weeks.

Tires – Maintain proper tire pressure to improve vehicle performance and gas mileage. Doing so is also important for vehicle safety. Checking the tire pressure frequently is more important if the car is parked for long periods of time. Vehicles that sit idle too long can develop flat spots, so taking a brief drive every once in a while will help prevent bald spots, and recharge the battery, too.

Fuel – Today’s modern fuel systems help preserve the life of the gas in your tank and also prevent fuel oxidation. Keeping a full tank of gas helps limit gas-tank condensation. If you are still concerned about the gas in your tank going bad, a fuel stabilizer may help extend the life of your fuel.

Oil – If a car sits too long, the oil can deteriorate, so continue to change the oil at the proper time intervals, even if you are not driving your normal mileage. It is always best to check the owner’s manual for the maximum time you should wait between oil changes.

Brakes – If a car sits idle, rust can start to form on the brake rotors, especially if the car is parked outside. Driving your car at least once a week will help prevent rust buildup.

Cleaning – Removing the grime and sediment that builds up on the outside of your car helps prevent rust, and cleaning the interior is important, too. Wipe down the dashboard, steering wheel, cup holders, door handles, vents and console with a quality, all-purpose automotive cleaner that will help disinfect the interior areas of your vehicle.

For more helpful information about maintaining your vehicle for safety, dependability and value, visit www.carcare.org/car-care-guide to order the Car Care Council’s free 80-page Car Care Guide.

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NAPA Know How: Pro Tips for Strut Installation

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While testing your struts is easy, strut replacement is not. First, shock and strut replacement requires lifting and supporting your vehicle to let the suspension hang. If you know how to use a jack and jack stands, you’re already halfway there. Second, strut replacement or coil-over shock replacement usually requires a special strut compressor tool to do the job safely. On the other hand, quick struts are a great DIY option.

Here are a few pro tips to help your strut installation go smoothly.

Why Use Quick Struts?

MacPherson struts and coil-over shocks require a strut compressor or spring compressor tool to disassemble. This heavy-duty tool is necessary to overcome the intense spring pressure that supports your vehicle. But you can still renew your suspension and ride quality by using a safer method. When considering rear coil-over shock installation, these quick struts are a convenient and time-saving solution. Instead of removing the shock and disassembling it, simply remove the entire unit and install a new one.

Identify Strut Orientation

When installing quick struts, match up left and right units as well as their orientation. Shocks and struts may have brackets and tabs for mounting other parts, like height sensors and brake lines. Also, spring orientation can affect ride quality and steering. Use a paint marker to identify strut position and orientation, so you can install the new assemblies similarly. Something as simple as an “L” or an arrow can save a lot of headaches after shock installation.

Support Your Car With Jack Stands

It may be tempting to lift the vehicle and remove the upper strut mounts with the wheels hanging, but the weight of the wheel may yank a wheel speed sensor cable or brake line, damaging it. After the vehicle is lifted and supported on jack stands, use the jack to support the control arm. Once the top mount is loosened — never touch the center nut — you can slowly lower the control arm to remove the whole strut assembly. If you see cables or hoses pulling, disconnect them from their brackets to prevent damage.

Maintain Proper Torque

Proper torque keeps your shock installation from falling apart.Though the weight of the vehicle plays a large part in keeping struts in their place, torque at both top and bottom mounts is critical. Aside from keeping everything together — no one wants to lose a wheel on the highway — proper torque maintains alignment angles that prolong tire life and stabilize steering. Look up torque specifications in the repair manual or ask your local mechanic for more information.

Align Your Wheels

If the strut mounts to the knuckle, front or rear, slight variations in strut manufacture may skew alignment angles, resulting in pulling or abnormal tire wear. Coil-over shocks usually mount to the suspension arm, which don’t affect the alignment angle if removed. Either way, after strut or shock installation, a wheel alignment will get everything lined up properly.

Because there’s no real shock and strut replacement interval, shock installation is typically recommended only if they’re leaking or noticeably bouncy. If you don’t feel confident installing quick struts or performing any other DIY job, bring the job to your local mechanic for professional assistance.

Check out all the steering and suspension parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on strut replacement, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photos courtesy of Benjamin Jerew and Wikimedia Commons.

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It’s Your Turn (Using Turn Signals)

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Distracted driving causes a lot of motor vehicle accidents. Well, according to one study, twice as many are caused by people not using their turn signals.

Drivers have a lot of excuses for not signaling. About a quarter of drivers in one survey said they were just too lazy to do it. Others think they really don’t have to use a turn signal, even though traffic laws in most areas require it. There are drivers who think they don’t have enough time to do it because they make last-minute decisions; not the kind of driving that experts consider safe.

An insurance company surveyed young drivers and more than two-thirds of them admitted they didn’t regularly use turn signals.

Here are a few reasons drivers should use their turn signals. When you signal a turn or a lane change, it lets drivers around you know what you intend to do. That way the other drivers can anticipate your actions and take whatever measures they must. For example, if there’s a long line of traffic and you’re having a hard time merging, turning on your signal at least gives other drivers a chance to be courteous and let you in. Or if you’re turning left, the driver behind you may choose to change lanes rather than having to wait behind you until traffic clears. It’s always nice to be considerate of the other driver.

Some reported that they don’t use their turn signals because they’re broken. If that’s the case for you, head on over to your NAPA AutoCare Center and have yours checked out. It may be a burned-out bulb, a relay, or other electrical problems such as wiring or a switch. In any case, your turn signals should be in operable condition.

Finally, the number one reason people don’t use their turn signals is that they just forget. Oh, and how about those drivers who do use their turn signal and forget to turn it off?

There are many things you must keep track of when you’re driving. Another driver’s turn signals give you one more piece of information you can use to move through traffic safely. Isn’t it your turn?

Symptoms of a Bad Turn Signal Switch

The turn signal switch performs several functions, both electrical, and mechanical, while indicating a vehicle turn. Electrically, it signals the turn signal flasher to flash either the right or left turn lights, both front and rear. Mechanically, it maintains the turn signal flasher function until the steering wheel is reversed from the turn direction selected. For example, if a left turn signal is selected, the turn signal switch will maintain a flashing left turn signal until the steering wheel is turned a certain amount counterclockwise (for a left turn), then turned clockwise back to a straight-ahead, or centered position. The same is true for a right turn. The flashing turn signal is then “cancelled”.

One of the most frequently used electrical components on a vehicle, a failed, or failing, turn signal switch may be indicated by the following symptoms:

  1. Turn signal indicator continues to blink when the steering wheel returns to the center. This symptom likely reflects a failure of the mechanical portion of the turn signal switch. Unfortunately, we’ve all seen drivers cruising straight down the road, with their turn signal still blinking. This failure mode is the likely original cause.
  2. Turn signal lights don’t continue flashing unless turn signal lever is held down. Similarly, this symptom also reflects a failure of the mechanical portion of the switch. Correction of this problem is best left to a professional mechanic at AAC who can provide you with a diagnosis, and then perform the turn signal switch replacement.
  3. Left or right turn signals or the Hazard Warning Light not working properly. The hazard warning flasher and turn signal flasher functions are built into a single, integrated electrical unit, potentially affecting both turn signal and hazard flasher functions at the same time. AAC can confirm the hazard flasher failure, and replace the flasher unit if this is the failing component.

Turn Signal Bulb Replacement Service

What is the Turn Signal Bulb

The turn signal bulbs are located inside the light assemblies on all four corners of the car. The turn signal switch takes the drivers input and sends power to the corresponding bulb to inform other drivers that you intend to change lanes or make a turn.

Keep in mind:
If all four turn signal bulbs stop flashing or lighting up, it is likely that the turn signal flasher has gone bad, not the bulbs.

The mechanic at AAC will check all the lights in your car every time you get a major service at our auto shop.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Turn Signal Bulb?
Turn signal lights are not flashing or lighting up.

How important is this service?
Turn signals exist to alert your surroundings that your vehicle will be making a turn. When you press the lever on your steering column, front and rear turn signal bulbs flash, to let drivers around you know of your intention to make a turn. When a turn signal bulb dies, that turn signal will no longer light up. This means that your vehicle will not alert drivers in front of you (if it’s the front turn signal bulb) or behind you (if it’s the rear turn signal bulb) that you plan to turn, which makes your vehicle a safety hazard.

Not having a functioning turn signal is also illegal, and carries a hefty fix-it ticket price.

Federal Government Issued Guidance to State Officials including Vehicle Service & Repair as Essential Services

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NAPA Know How: What Is an Engine Air Filter Made of?

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Engine air filters come in lots of different shapes and sizes, but they all do one job: They keep the inside of your engine free from harmful debris. Over the years, the design of engine air filters has changed, from their size to their material, so no one filter works best for all makes and models. Here’s a rundown of an engine air filter’s components.

A Little History

The first cars didn’t have engine air filters — automotive pioneers quickly figured out that debris was getting inside the engines, hurting performance and shortening engine life. Early on, the first solution was a water bath that trapped particles, which led to a second attempt: an oil bath, thicker and stickier, to trap still more impurities. Lastly, their third solution included air filters made of paper or fiber — a variation of which we’ve continued to use for more than half a century.

From Round to Flat

If you look under the hood of older cars with carburetors, you’ll find the engine air filter inside a round container that looks like a holiday cookie tin. The idea was to surround the carburetor with a filter.

As we’ve moved on from carburetors to fuel injection, a large, round air filter would take up important space needed for hoses and wires, including the engine itself. If you have a fuel-injected vehicle, your air filter is probably flat, rectangular and not visible when you first open the hood. Although, there are some nice aftermarket air filters that still get the job done and look good doing it, too.

Common Air Filter Materials

The earliest, simplest engine air filters were made of paper, and some still are, but you can also get filters made of premium cotton, synthetic foam and cotton soaked in oils that trap even more contaminants. Paper filters are produced with different features: Some are treated, others are pleated or embossed, which their manufacturers claim makes them more efficient at trapping impurities before they reach the engine. Other filters use a metal mesh to help with that.

Filter frames also come in a variety of material types. They’re usually made with either plastic or rubber, which are both designed for an airtight fit, eliminating the need for separate gaskets or seals.

Whatever material you choose, the main thing to remember is that you need to change your engine air filter regularly. Just pull the old frame out, put the new one in and you’re good to go for another 10,000 to 15,000 miles. Because they’re so easy to replace, engine air filters are a great maintenance item for a beginner DIYer. Once you add it to your routine maintenance list, your car will run better for longer.

Check out all the engine air filters available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on air filters, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

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Door to door pick up and delivery of your vehicle! Preventive vs Reactive…

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Owner of Advanced Auto Clinic Tony Lynn would like to take a couple minutes to inform the community about what’s going on at AAC and what extra precautions we are taking to be safe.

Preventive vs Reactive…

Advanced Auto Clinic is leading the way in doing what we feel is best for our customers and our community. We have a long history of community support and involvement when needs arise. NOW THAT THE CORONAVIRUS IS IN WISCONSIN WE ALL NEED TO BE PREVENTIVE!

Door to door pick up and delivery of your vehicle!
Advanced Auto Clinic would like to help our community and our customers in any way we can. Starting right now we will be offering and providing door to door pick up and delivery of your vehicle from home or office if it is in need of service or repairs at our facility. We will be providing this service within 12 miles at NO CHARGE.

Our service staff and shuttle driver will take necessary hygienic precautions while in possession of your vehicle. Once at our facility your vehicle will be subject to the basics of hygiene wipe down on high contact surfaces and the use of airborne disinfectants and cleaners upon your approval. This is NOT a guarantee that all forms of bacteria or virus will be removed or eliminated, but we do feel that this is a step in the right direction in being preventative.

Give us a call to keep you and your vehicle healthy, 262-728-2944.

AAA Newsroom: Two-Thirds of All States See Double-Digit Pump Price Drop on the Week

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Eleven States Have Gas Price Average of $2/Gallon or Less

As crude oil prices trend close to $30/bbl, Americans are seeing pump prices plummet across the country. On the week, gas price averages in 35 states decreased by double-digits, pushing the national average to $2.25, the cheapest price point of the year.

“The national gas price average is 13 cents cheaper on the week and nearly 20 cents less than the beginning of the month. These are significant decreases in just 7 and 16 days,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “AAA expects gas prices to continue trending cheaper, with the high likelihood of the national average hitting $2/gallon before the end of March.”

During this uncertain time of COVID-19, gas prices are declining despite increasing gasoline demand and decreasing U.S. stock levels.

Quick Stats

  • The nation’s top 10 largest weekly decreases are: Ohio (-27 cents), Kentucky (-21 cents), Michigan (-21 cents), Wisconsin (-21 cents), Indiana (-19 cents), Illinois (-19 cents), Oklahoma (-15 cents), Iowa (-15 cents), Maine (-15 cents) and Minnesota (-15 cents).  
  • The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Oklahoma ($1.92), Texas ($1.96), Mississippi ($1.96), South Carolina ($1.97), Ohio ($1.97), Indiana ($1.97), Missouri ($1.98), Kentucky ($1.99), Louisiana ($2.00) and Alabama ($2.00).  

Great Lakes and Central States

Some of the largest weekly pump price savings in the country can be found in the Great Lakes and Central states. Eight out of the top 10 largest weekly decreases are states from the region: Ohio (-27 cents), Kentucky (-21 cents), Michigan (-21 cents), Wisconsin (-21 cents), Indiana (-19 cents), Illinois (-19 cents), Iowa (-15 cents) and Minnesota (-15 cents). All states in the region saw double-digit decreases, with South Dakota (-10 cents) seeing the smallest decrease on the week.

With the substantial drops at the pump, state gas prices in the region are relatively cheap, ranging from as low as $1.98 in Missouri to a high of $2.30 in Illinois.

With a draw of 1.8 million bbl, the Great Lakes and Central states region saw its first substantial drop in gasoline stocks in two months, according to the Energy Information Administration’s latest report. At 58 million bbl, stock levels remain healthy and in line with levels this time last year. If stocks were to decrease again in the coming week that would traditionally mean a pump price increase, but given current trends it’s more likely gas prices would decrease.

South and Southeast

Four states in the South and Southeast region have a gas price average below $2/gallon: Oklahoma ($1.92), Texas ($1.96), Mississippi ($1.96) and South Carolina ($1.97). It’s likely other states in the region will fall below the two dollar price point in the coming week, including: Louisiana ($2.00), Alabama ($2.00), Arkansas ($2.01), Tennessee ($2.03) and Georgia ($2.07). At $2.16, New Mexico and Florida carry the most expensive state averages in the region.

State gas price averages in the South and Southeast are 10 to 15 cents cheaper on the week. Oklahoma (-15 cents) saw the largest decline in the region and ranks among the top 10 states with the biggest pump price change in the last seven days.

Gasoline stocks saw another week of substantial draw, this time 3.7 million bbl. The EIA reports that with the latest draw, total regional stock levels measure at 83 million bbl – the lowest level seen since the end of December last year. Year-over-year, regional stocks are sitting at a 4 million bbl deficit. Typically this could push gas prices more expensive, but its likely motorists in the region will see cheaper gas prices in the week ahead due to market uncertainties associated with the coronavirus.

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

On the week, motorists in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region saw average declines of 6 to 15 cents. Maine ($2.21) saw the biggest weekly difference of any state in the region.

State gas price averages are $2.50 or less for every state in the region. New York ($2.48), Washington, D.C. ($2.47) and Pennsylvania ($2.46) carry the highest averages in the region while North Carolina ($2.07) and Virginia ($2.06) have the cheapest regional averages.

Gasoline stocks built by 400,000 bbl, bumping total regional stock levels to nearly 64 million bbl. More positive news for the region was revealed in EIA’s latest report: refinery utilization increased for the first time since early January, up almost three percentage points to nearly 59%. In the coming week, regional gas prices are likely to follow the national trend of pushing cheaper. 

Rockies

Three Rockies states land on the top 10 list of states with the smallest weekly change: Utah (-1 cent), Idaho (-2 cents) and Wyoming (-3 cents). Montana (-8 cents) and Colorado (-11 cents) saw more significant pump price drops.  Regional gas price averages range from as cheap as $2.18 in Colorado to $2.53 in Idaho.

Stocks dipped slight by 140,000 bbl to 9.1 million bbl. Compared to last year at this time, EIA data shows that current regional stock levels are at a 1.8 million bbl surplus. This healthy difference will likely keep state gas price averages declining in the week ahead, though potentially only by a few pennies for most of the region.

West Coast

Like the rest of the country, pump prices in the West Coast region have declined and are poised to continue their descent this week, as crude prices remain low. When compared to a week ago, California (-10 cents) saw the largest decline. Hawaii ($3.52) and California ($3.34) remain the most expensive markets in the country. Washington ($3.02), Oregon ($2.92), Alaska ($2.86), Nevada ($2.82) and Arizona ($2.67) follow.

According to EIA’s latest weekly report, total gas stocks in the region increased slightly from 31.41 million bbl to 31.64 million bbl, which is 1.14 million bbl lower than the level at this time in 2019. Pump prices are likely to continue decreasing this week, barring any supply challenges.

Oil Market Dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI increased by 23 cents to settle at $31.73. Fears about COVID-19 and the crude price war between Russia and Saudi Arabia pushed crude prices lower last week. After President Trump announced that the U.S. Department of Energy would purchase oil to top off the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, crude prices rallied briefly. However, the announcement is unlikely to help increase crude prices further since the limited number of barrels the U.S. could purchase is small when compared to the dramatic reduction in global crude demand as a result of reduced economic activity due to COVID-19. Moving into this week, crude prices are likely to continue decreasing as the world grapples with how to contain the ongoing international public health crisis and associated economic challenges that could lead to a global recession. Until the price war ends and fears about COVID-19 subside, domestic crude prices are likely to remain low.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

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Rough Road Ahead? Get $75 back when you purchase qualifying NAPA Steering & Suspension Parts!*

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Get $75 when you purchase qualifying NAPA Steering and Suspension Parts of $250 or more.*

NAPA Steering and Suspension is pleased to provide this consumer rebate offer where customers can Get $75 when they purchase qualifying NAPA Steering and Suspension Parts of $250 or more. Valid March 1 – April 30, 2020. Claims due by May 15, 2020.

Whether your family drives cars, light trucks, SUVs or all three, Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan is with you for every bump and turn. AAC can be your one-stop headquarters for vehicle service and repairs. We’ll check suspension parts for wear and ensure that you enjoy a smoother ride. Now with a qualifying NAPA steering and suspension purchase of $250 or more you get back a $75 prepaid Visa card. Have peace of mind knowing your vehicle can handle any rough roads ahead and you enjoy extra rewards.

Stop in or call Advanced Auto Clinic to schedule your inspection today!

Qualifying NAPA Steering and Suspension Parts:

  • NAPA Bearings: BRN, BRG, PGB Qualifying lines excluding AG & HD Bearings and all promotional items.
  • NAPA Seals: OSN, NOS Qualifying lines, excludes all promotional items.
  • NAPA U Joints: UJS Qualifying lines, excludes all promotional items
  • NAPA CV Shafts: NMD NCV Qualifying lines, excludes all promotional items
  • NAPA Chassis: NCP, PCC, TTX Qualifying lines, excludes all promotional items
  • NAPA Ride Control: KYB, NS, RR, RRA, RCP, ARN Qualifying lines, excludes all promotional items.
  • NAPA Exhaust, Magnaflow Exhaust and Bosal Exhaust: EXH, MAG, MF, BOS Qualifying lines, excludes all promotional items.
  • NAPA Steering: PS, NRP, NSP Qualifying lines, excludes all promotional items.

NAPA Know How: How Do You Wire Up a Trailer to Your Car?

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Connecting a trailer to your vehicle is easier than ever, especially with backup cameras to guide you. Yet, the process requires some knowledge about wiring and hitch pins, which control trailer lighting, turn signals, reverse lights and trailer braking.

How do you wire up a trailer to your car? Let’s dive in.

Ensure Your Vehicle Can Do the Job

It’s critical that your vehicle is rated for towing. Not all cars are, and even some utility vehicles aren’t designed for towing. If you tow with a vehicle not intended to pull, you risk damaging its brake and suspension systems. The engine and transmission may not be able to handle the strain, potentially damaging both.

Even if your vehicle is rated for towing, you need to know its towing capability. That information is typically listed in your owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website. The weight limit includes the trailer, a boat or other object sitting on the trailer, and anything inside. It’s a good idea to weigh your tow vehicle and trailer before you hit the road. Visit any truck stop with a certified scale to obtain weights.

Use a Wiring Harness

Wiring your trailer makes it possible for the turn signals, lighting, reverse lights and trailer brakes to activate. From both a safety and legal standpoint, each component must work. That’s where a trailer wiring harness comes in.

A trailer wiring harness is vehicle-specific, which means it’s designed for the make, model and year of your vehicle. Also known as a T-connector, it usually plugs in without any splicing required and supplies a standard connection such as a four-way flat. Each harness includes vehicle-specific plugs and, if necessary, an electrical converter. Power is drawn from the tow vehicle’s taillights or from a battery connection.

Make the Connection

When ordering a wiring harness, it’ll come with a four-, five-, six- or seven-way wiring connection, depending on the vehicle and how you’re planning to tow (i.e., a boat trailer with or without surge brakes, utility or camper trailer, or a fifth-wheel or gooseneck trailer).

The wiring is universally color-coded for ease of connection. The colors include:

  • Green (right turn brakes).
  • Yellow (left turn brakes).
  • Brown (taillights).
  • White (ground).
  • Blue (electrical brakes).
  • Black (reverse lights).
  • Red (auxiliary power).

Simply bring the two connection points together, ground the white wire to the frame and you’re ready to go.

It’s important that the wires are properly grounded, otherwise, problems may arise, such as the brakes illuminating unevenly. Use a circuit tester to verify that each wire is correctly supplying power. If the trailer wiring connectors are dirty, apply white vinegar or an electrical degreaser to clean them.

Ready to Hit the Road

Before heading out, make sure the coupler latch is closed, the hitch pin is inserted and the safety chains are in place. Lastly, have someone check while you activate the headlights, turn signals and brakes. Verify a secure trailer connection by driving around your neighborhood. Once satisfied, you’re ready to begin your trip.

And just like that, you’ve transitioned from asking, “How do you wire up a trailer?” to “Are we there yet?”

Check out all the truck and towing products available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on towing equipment, chat with an expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy of Flickr.

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