WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 7, 2022) — Blustery winter weather and geopolitical tensions are helping to drive the price of oil higher, which is in the low-$90s per barrel, nearly $30 more than in August. The recent cold weather in the U.S increased the demand for heating oil. Meanwhile, the concern that Russia will react to potential western sanctions by withholding crude oil from the already tight global market puts heavy upward pressure on prices. The national average for a gallon of gas has surged to $3.44, eight cents more than a week ago. Gas was last this expensive in 2014.

“This shows how events on the other side of the globe can have a noticeable impact right here in the U.S,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “And unfortunately for drivers, they are reminded of this by higher prices at the pump.”

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 2, 2022 --

Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and Giulia Quadrifoglio make the Car and Driver Editors' Choice list for the fifth consecutive year

Chrysler Pacifica continues its run as Editors' Choice for Minivans

Jeep® Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L take Editors' Choice honors for Mid-Size SUV

Ram 1500, 1500 TRX and 2500/3500 continue their presence on Editors' Choice list

A total of eight vehicles from the Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Ram and Jeep® brands are among those selected by the editors of Car and Driver for the 2022 edition of the publication's annual Editors' Choice honors.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 1, 2022) — As vehicles become increasingly automated, automakers realize some technology may give drivers the false sense that the vehicle can drive itself. To counter this, driver monitoring systems with either a camera or steering wheel detection are used to prevent the deadly consequences of a distracted driver. However, new real-world testing by AAA found systems using a driver-facing camera are best at keeping motorists focused on the road. Unfortunately, the technology is not foolproof and a driver determined to cheat the system can defeat it.

“The key to a safe active driving assistance system is effective driver monitoring that can’t be easily tricked,” said Greg Brannon, director of AAA’s automotive engineering and industry relations. “Vehicle technology has the potential to improve roadway safety, but the last thing we want are ineffective features in the hands of uninformed or overconfident drivers.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 24, 2022) — Despite typical low seasonal demand for gasoline, pump prices are clawing their way higher. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.33, two cents more than a week ago. The culprit is the rising price for oil, which is now bobbing around $85 per barrel, nearly $20 more than in November. Last week, both OPEC and U.S. energy officials said the COVID-19 omicron variant is no longer expected to slow the continued recovery of petroleum demand in 2022. Despite this, OPEC and its allies are maintaining their planned modest production increases and will not dramatically ramp up output. The result will be a continued tight supply of oil.

“Since dipping to $3.28 in the first week of January, the national average for a gallon of gas has slowly started to rise again,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “And as long as the price for oil remains elevated, consumers will be feeling it at the pump.”

Most car owners know that they should get their oil changed regularly. But what many people don’t know is that they should also change their car’s oil filter regularly.

Not changing your car’s oil filter can lead to several problems, including clogged filters and decreased performance.

So if you haven’t had your car’s oil filter changed recently, now is the time to do it. At Virginia Auto Service, Scottsdale & Phoenix, Arizona, we can help you with all your car repair needs.

Signs of Clogged or Leaking Oil Filter that you should urgently address:

Overheating Engine

When a car’s engine air filter becomes blocked, you’ll notice that performance and fuel economy suffer when driving on open roads as well at gas stations.

If you don’t have enough flow-of-engine fluids, your car will gradually wear down and become less efficient. As a result, it decreases your vehicle from performing essential functions like starting up in cold weather and will lead to costly repairs.