Thinking of stretching that tank of gas as far as it can get you before facing the current pain at the pumps again?

AAA is warning why that ultimately could come back to bite you.

As gas prices soar, AAA is discouraging cost-cutting measures it says increase the risk of breakdowns and expensive repairs.

AAA expects more than 44.9 million Americans to travel at least 50 miles from home over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. More than 39 million will travel by car, making it one of the busiest driving periods of the year.

Gas prices are running at their highest levels in four years, so this year’s road trip is likely to cost more at the gas pump, AAA advised in a news release. On Wednesday, the Michigan average gas price was $4.83 a gallon. Last year, drivers paid an average of $3.20 on Memorial Day. To review daily average prices, go online to Gasprices.AAA.com.

“When fuel prices rise, drivers often look for immediate ways to save money, and that can include delaying maintenance or stretching a tank of gas longer than recommended,” Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in the news release. “Those short‒term decisions can lead to long‒term costs, especially during busy travel weekends.”

A new AAA survey found when pump prices rise, nearly half — 47% — of Michiganders let their gas tank fall closer to empty than usual before filling up.

“Repeatedly driving on a very low fuel level can damage the fuel pump, potentially leading to repair costs of $1,000 or more,” Woodland said. “AAA recommends refilling your gas tank before it drops below a quarter full.”

AAA also notes that delaying routine vehicle maintenance can reduce fuel economy. Underinflated tires, worn engine components, dirty air filters and overdue oil changes can lower gas mileage, forcing drivers to spend more at the pump over time.

“Skipping maintenance to save money often has the opposite effect,” Woodland said. “Poor vehicle condition can reduce fuel efficiency, increase breakdown risk, and lead to repair bills that far exceed the cost of basic upkeep.”

AAA encourages drivers to get their vehicles inspected now, while there is still time before the holiday rush. Motorists can go to AAA.com/AutoRepair to find a nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair Facility, where inspected and certified technicians can check vehicles for safety issues, fuel‒efficiency concerns and potential trouble spots before travel.