Filling up the gas tank of America’s most popular cars has become significantly more expensive. According to the latest data, drivers of the Ford F-150, the country’s most-driven vehicle, are facing a substantial increase in fuel costs compared to last year.
Price Increase for Popular Vehicles
Based on AAA’s U.S. average price of $4.46 per gallon on Monday, May 4, filling a Ford F-150’s 36-gallon tank costs $160.56. This time last year, the same fill-up cost $114.12, meaning drivers are paying $46.44 more. Even for less gas-guzzling vehicles like the Toyota Camry, costs have risen. A Camry’s 13-gallon tank now costs $57.98, up from $41.21 a year ago—a difference of $16.77.
Impact of the Iran War
The ongoing Iran war under President Donald Trump has been a major factor driving up gas prices. Additionally, the summer season typically brings a more expensive gasoline blend to cope with higher temperatures, further aggravating consumer costs. The longer the conflict continues, the more likely Americans will see sustained high prices.
Annual Cost Burden
According to the Federal Highway Administration, the average Ford F-150 driver uses about 374 gallons of gas annually, while a Camry driver uses around 293 gallons. At current prices, F-150 drivers are paying $482 more in 2026 than a year ago, and Camry drivers are paying $378 more.
The Trump administration has attempted to reassure the public, stating that prices will drop once the war ends. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News, “We are cognizant that this short-term blip up in prices is affecting the American people but I am also confident on the other side of this prices are going to come down very quickly.” President Trump himself has said that after the war, gas prices will “drop like a rock.”
However, the timeline for the conflict’s resolution remains uncertain, leaving drivers to grapple with elevated fuel costs for the foreseeable future.
