LEXINGTON, Ky. — Lexington companies who deal with vehicles are concerned about gas prices increasing. Auto shops and towing companies rely on people driving, and are concerned these gas prices will impact their business. 

What You Need To Know

  • Automotive companies are concerned with gas prices increasing

  • Large heavy wreckers typically go through 11,000-13,000 gallons of fuel each year

  • Towing companies are working to adjust their workforce to accommodate for the fuel increase

  • Keeping your car in good condition helps your car become fuel efficient

 

Service Advisor Tim Morris says the automotive industry has experienced difficulties over the last few years, starting with the pandemic and now an increase in gas prices. 

“Fuel prices rise, so will the cost of doing business. You know we’ve seen that some of the part stores and delivery people are charging a surcharge for gas, tow services are going up,” Morris said.

Car Masters are not concerned about losing customers, but are recommending people continue keeping up with their vehicles even during this time. 

“Now is the time to make sure that the car is maintained properly so that you do have a more fuel-efficient car,” Morris said.

Checking tires, using the correct gas, and changing air filters are just a few ways to keep your car fuel efficient. 

“Just basically getting more bang for your buck. I mean, if you’re paying that high price just to make sure that everything is working,” Morris said.

Along with auto repair shops, companies like Roberts Heavy Duty Towing are adjusting their workforce because of the gas increase. 

“Imagine just driving down the road towing a tractor trailer load of fuel. That’s what it takes to fuel these things in a normal year of business for us,” Flanigin said.

Kevin Flanigin, says their larger heavy wreckers go through anywhere between 11,000 to 13,000 gallons a year.  

“It’s a major concern for us. You know the majority of our time is spent out on the road. The price of fuel going up has a direct impact on our business,” Flanigin said.

Telling employees to stay in the shop until needed, and driving when only necessary, Flanigin says fuel is one of the biggest costs in their industry.

“With what’s influencing this, I don’t think we’re going to see a decline in our fuel prices in the near future. I think we’re going to be riding this out for a little while,” Flanigin said. 

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