(KYTX) - Gas prices we've seen lately are too high for most East Texans, but car experts say changing what you put in your tires could make a big difference in how much money you spend at gas stations.
"I actually fill it with nitrogen." says Gateway Tire & Services employee Ryan Long.
That's right, Nitrogen! Racecar drivers have been using it in their tires for years.
"But not many people know about that." says Gateway Tire & Services employee Chris O'Byrne. "It's not mainstream in Tyler yet."
But there are places in East Texas that offer it. O'Byrne says Nitrogen keeps your tires at a more steady pressure.
"Nitrogen keeps the inflation at a more stable level. It's a bigger molecule, so it doesn't permeate through the rubber like compressed air does."
And, keeping your tires at the right inflation gets you better gas mileage, and that means savings at the pump and longer tire life.
"It saves you on your mileage- usually up to 4% on your fuel mileage." says O'Byrne.
But, to get those savings, you do have to pay up. It costs about $5 per tire to fill them up with Nitrogen, but O'Byrne says that equals out to a savings of up to $300 per year on gas.
"I just couldn't believe it!"
Paula Douglas says with gas prices as high as they are now, she has to do something.
"I remembering saying I am not paying $1.35 per gallon for gas, and now, I'm pointing out $3.59!"
Many businesses only require you to pay for Nitrogen once, then it's free.
"I can't wait to get home and tell my husband!" says Douglas.
