California’s refineries continue to have production problems which led to the third consecutive week of production declines in the region.

That situation kept California’s gas prices near the top of the country.

Tuesday’s average price of California unleaded regular gas is $2.88, that is $0.01 higher than Monday, a $0.05 increase from a week ago, up $0.07 from a month ago and $0.47 higher than a year ago. Northern California’s average price for regular gasoline is $2.80, up $0.04 from a month ago.

Of the Northern California cities surveyed by AAA as a service to consumers, Marysville posted the lowest price at $2.57 and South Lake Tahoe has the highest average at $3.14.

“California gas prices inched higher due to refinery maintenance last week, as Chevron shut down two production refineries in El Segundo and Richmond due to unplanned maintenance and problems with production equipment,” said John Moreno, spokesperson for AAA Northern California. “Gas prices on the West Coast remain the highest in the nation.”

The national average gas price reflects the majority of the country by staying relatively steady this past week.

Tuesday’s average price was $2.28, the same as Monday, showing an increase of $0.01 from a week ago, $0.07 higher than a month ago but a gain of $0.58 from a year ago. Hawaii posts the highest price in the country, $3.11 and South Carolina has the lowest average price, $2.04.

On Monday, OPEC released its Monthly Oil Market Report showing that participating countries implemented 90 percent of the agreed upon production cuts pledged at last year’s historic deal. This translated into a cut of 890,000 barrels of oil per day in January. The U.S. has tempered the impact of the OPEC production cut by continuing to increase drilling and production.

To get the best mileage possible, AAA recommends keeping tires at the proper pressure suggested by the vehicle manufacturer, performing routine maintenance and making sure fluids are clean and belts and hoses are in good repair.

The way you drive can also impact fuel economy. Smooth driving to avoid sudden stops and starts, combining trips and lightening your load also help conserve gasoline.

AAA’s Fuel Gauge Report is the most comprehensive retail gasoline survey available, with over 100,000 self-serve stations surveyed every day, nationwide. Data is provided in cooperation with OPIS Energy Group and Wright Express LLC.