(NewsUSA) - When gas prices rise, Americans start feeling a pinch where it hurts -; in their pocketbooks.

But gas prices are no reason to stay home. AAA has some useful tips to help maximize your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

First, perform basic vehicle checks that will help maximize your miles per gallon:

- Check your air filter twice a year. A dirty filter reduces performance and increases fuel consumption.

- Check your tires monthly, and inflate to the recommended pressure. Under-inflated tires not only increase fuel use, they are a safety hazard.

Second, listen when your vehicle tells you something is wrong. Take your car in for service right away if you experience:

- Engine bucking, surging, stalling, misfire or poor performance. These symptoms indicate a problem that is wasting fuel.

- The "check engine" light comes on. This means exhaust emissions are too high and fuel economy is too low.

Third, consult your owner's manual for the recommended maintenance needed to keep your vehicle running efficiently. Have those services performed by a shop with certified technicians who can spot other problems that may affect fuel consumption.

Looking for a good shop? Visit the automotive page of AAA.com to find local AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities that meet and maintain high standards.

Finally, AAA reminds motorists that how you drive has the single greatest impact on how much fuel your vehicle burns. Fuel-saving habits to consider include:

- Maintaining a steady speed. Cars require extra fuel when they accelerate, so avoid quick starts and stops that waste gas and are harder on vehicle components.

- Lightening your load. Don't haul unneeded items in your vehicle; their added weight will increase fuel use.

- Traveling at moderate highway speeds. Higher speeds require more power and fuel to overcome air resistance.

- Using the air conditioner conservatively. Air conditioning requires lots of power. In cool weather around town, turn the air conditioner off, and open your windows. In hot weather or on the highway, set the air conditioning to a higher temperature. Where available, use "economy" or "recirculation" settings to reduce air conditioner operation and minimize the amount of hot outside air that must be cooled.