Today, June 1st, marks start of summer gasoline rules in Michigan

Rules mean higher gas prices at the pump:

You can expect to see a jump at the pump starting Wednesday.

June 1 marks the beginning of summer gasoline rules in Michigan -- which means gas stations in Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties must only sell or dispense a "summer gas blend" that does not exceed 7.0 pounds per square inch (psi) vapor pressure.

“Summer-formula gasoline increases fuel efficiency and helps smog-causing compounds from being released into the atmosphere,” said Craig VanBuren, acting laboratory division director for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. “MDARD inspectors will conduct on-site testing during the summer gas season, which runs from June 1 to September 15.”

The current statewide average price for regular unleaded is around $2.50 a gallon. That's up 19 cents compared to a month ago, but still lower than the $2.73 average we were paying a year ago.

How to file a gas quality complaint

If you suspect that you have purchased substandard fuel (mislabeled octane, water in gas, etc) or that you have received a short/incorrect measure, contact MDARD on our Complaints page. Questions about gas gouging should be directed to the Michigan Attorney General’s office at 877-765-8388.

Tips for energy efficient driving

1. Combine trips for shopping and errands.

2. Avoid unnecessary trips. Use the telephone or e-mail to communicate.

3. For short trips, walk or ride a bike.

4. Join a carpool or use public transit to and from work or school.

5. Don’t idle the car for more than one minute.

6. Drive the speed limit, or below, for better mileage.

7. Overdrive gears improve the fuel economy of your car during highway driving.

8. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, tailgating and pumping the accelerator pedal. Gradual starts and stops result in less fuel use and less wear and tear.

9. Out on the open highway, keep windows rolled up to reduce drag.

10. Using a vehicle’s air conditioner on a hot summer day can decrease mileage. If it’s cool enough, use the flow-through ventilation on your car instead of the air conditioner.

11. Travel during off-peak hours when possible.

12. Take the shortest route with the best roads.

13. Use the cruise control -- it can save fuel by maintaining a steady speed.

14. Keep tires at the recommended air pressure.

15. Keep your car engine properly tuned.

16. Remove bicycle and ski racks when not in use.

17. Excess weight uses more fuel. Remove unnecessary items from inside the vehicle, trunk or truck bed.

18. Use the lowest octane gasoline recommended by the manufacturer.

19. When buying a new car, make fuel efficiency a priority.

20. Don’t buy a bigger engine than you need.

Read more at: http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/june-1st-marks-the-start-of-summer-gasoline-rules-in-michigan