Seeing the price of gas go down seems like a hope that will never be fulfilled. This summer, gas costs will likely soar to an all-time high.

The Consumer Federation of America, a consumer advocacy group, recently launched a campaign to educate consumers on saving money at the pump.

For improved gas mileage, the CFA recommends you make sure your air filter is clean; straighten out the car’s alignment; get a tune-up, which can improve mileage by 4 percent; properly inflate your tires; replace a broken or missing gasoline cap, which not only hurts mileage but the environment; and don’t carry unnecessary weight in the trunk.

The CFA suggests not speeding, because for every 5 miles per hour you lower your speed, there’s a 7 percent reduction in fuel consumption. Driving smoother when you accelerate or decelerate can also save fuel, and keeping your foot off the brake when driving can add the equivalent of 7 miles more per gallon.

Consider combining your short drives to run errands and using regular gas unless your car’s owners manual strongly urges you to use a higher octane grade. This will save 10 to 20 cents per gallon.

The CFA also introduced a new Mileage Rating Scale for 2006 vehicles to help consumers find the most fuel-efficient vehicle to fit their needs. Rather than preaching against sport utility vehicles, this ratings scale encourages people to choose a more fuel-efficient vehicle in the category they’re interested in.

CFA is hoping the Mileage Rating Scale, online at consumerfed.org, will change consumer behavior and influence carmakers to compete for a better ranking. Consumer advocates want this simple, color-coded rating guide to appear on the windows of new cars in showrooms.

Rather than choosing not to drive or skipping your summer trip because of gas prices, follow CFA’s advice. You’ll not only save money but reduce our dependency on foreign oil.

Schlaver is chair of the Massachusetts Consumers’ Coalition. For information, visit their website at massconsumers.org or call 617-349-6152 (TTY 617-349-6112).