Even though gas prices are hovering around the $2 mark in Michiana, the cold weather could be eating up some of your cost savings.

The U.S Department of Energy says your car's gas mileage can be 12 percent lower when it's 20 degrees outside or less. 

It can be worse for hybrids because their engines function better when they're warm. 

Various factors can contribute to poor fuel economy in the winter.

“Things they don't think of is batteries," said Nate Zolman of Zolman Tire and Auto shop. "If it's weak it's very difficult to get it started.”

Zolman says you shouldn't warm your car up for any longer than a minute. Otherwise, it could cost you.