AAA Fuel Price Report

BURNSVILLE, Minn., Aug. 4, 2003 -- Fuel Trends and Factors -- Nationally, AAA reports fuel prices are continuing their trend higher in comparison to last month and last year at this time. Regular octane is selling today nationwide at an average of $1.53 per gallon, whereas the fuel price was $1.49 a month ago and a $1.41 a year ago. Minnesota has kept pace with the national averages for regular octane selling at $1.53 per gallon today, whereas the fuel price was $1.47 a month ago and a $1.45 a year ago. Meanwhile, Iowa currently is below the national average selling regular octane for $1.50 per gallon, while last month was $1.43 and last year was $1.40 per gallon. While OPEC met August 1st and announced they would maintain production at the current levels, they warned at their September 24th meeting they may reduce production depending on: Iraq's stabilization and export abilities as well as the projected 800,000 barrels a day excess based on projected lower fourth quarter demand. Log onto www.aaa.com for further information about prices or trends.

Automotive Maintenance -- According to the National Car Care Council, each year 2,600 deaths and 100,000 disabling injuries are attributed to accidents caused by vehicle neglect. Furthermore, the cost of vehicle maintenance neglect exceeds $2 billion annually. AAA performs vehicle inspections each year and the problems most commonly found are; dirty or low engine oil (22%), inadequate or low coolant (20%), low transmission or power steering fluid (18%), corroded battery clamps or hold downs (13%), poor belts (16%), worn hoses (12%), and improperly inflated tires (13%). While there are no absolute guarantees against unexpected and costly car repairs, AAA recommends the best approach to safe and economic driving is to follow the manufacture's recommended maintenance schedule. AAA Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facilities can assist you with your maintenance needs. Log on to www.aaa.com to find the nearest AAR facility.

Tour Europe Cheap -- As you begin to think about your family's winter vacation, you may want to consider Europe now more than ever. Winter is a good time to visit England, Ireland, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Greece, Egypt and Russia because museums and attractions are much less crowded, airfares are lower, and temperatures are surprisingly mild. You can have the same quality vacation and save 25 percent compared to the summer months. Book before August 29th for travel between November 1, 2003 and April 7, 2004 with Trafalgar and your companion flies with you for a mere $99. Log on to www.aaa.com for more information or to book a great winter vacation.