SPECIAL SERIES: Record High Gas Prices Taking Toll on Salem-Keizer Residents, Businesses

With the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gas at a record high $2.82 in the Salem-area, automotive repair shops are seeing a slump in business.

A good running engine is more economical Photo By: Tim King

(SALEM) - With the average price for a gallon of gas in Salem and Keizer nearing, or in some cases passing three dollars a gallon, many auto repair shops in the area say they are not surprised that business is as slow as it is.

"Wes" from Today`s Automotive Services attributes the record high gas prices to a 20 percent drop in business.

He said people are doing whatever they have to do to keep their vehicles running, no more, no less. "Basically just running their cars till it breaks," Wes said.

Pete at AJ`s Auto Repair also said business there is down as well, but he said that was also normal for this time of year.

The high prices at the pump don`t help, and people are also having to pay their taxes as well, "so it`s kind-of a double whammy" he said.

Matt at P&M Automotive echoed Pete`s comments.

However, Dennis from Keizer Automotive and Towing said last week his schedule for vehicle repairs was booked.

But this week, he has lots of openings.

Dennis said he has also seen a 20 percent drop overall in his auto repair business since the price for gas went over two dollars a gallon.

His towing business is also losing money because of the high fuel prices.

He said fixed price towing contracts, such as those he has with area police agencies, makes it hard for him to make any money.

All four men however found it quite interesting that drivers are not bringing their vehicles in for an engine tune-up or other repairs that would maximize their vehicle's fuel mileage.

They said owners should be aware that it is critical for them to fix their vehicles when they notice a problem, which will save them hundreds, possibly thousands of dollars in auto repair costs, versus waiting until the vehicle stops running altogether.

Elliott Eki with AAA Oregon, said just because the 'check engine' light is not illuminated, don't assume all is well.

A simple diagnostics check will let you know what can be done to improve your car's performance and efficiency.

Eki says to get the most out of their fuel dollars, consumers need to keep the following in mind:

(1) Spark plugs must be in good condition.

(2) Air and fuel filters must be checked at least twice a year. Dirty filters increase fuel consumption and can cause poor performance.

(3) Tires must be inflated according to manufacturer recommendations. Under-inflated tires are a safety hazard and can cut fuel economy by as much as 2 percent per pound of pressure below the recommended level.

(4) If the emissions Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL), or "Check Engine," light comes on, have the vehicle serviced immediately.

(5) Follow a regular maintenance schedule. Routine inspections by a certified technician will ensure that all vehicle components that affect fuel consumption are functioning properly.

Coming Tomorrow: What local and state leaders feel about the high fuel prices in the state.

Monday`s Story: With gas prices expected to go over three dollars a gallon before this summer, many families are temporarily exchanging their possessions for gas money, and some gas station owners say they want out of the business altogether.