CLEVELAND -- When gas prices hit an all-time high, there was a lot of talk about the benefits of putting nitrogen in your tires instead of regular old fashioned air. So we wanted to know if it really makes a difference and can it save you money.

5 On Your Side asked consumers who use nitrogen in their tires what they thought about it.

"I don't see any difference with the tire except not having to put any air on the tires and saving gas," a consumer said.

Another consumer told 5 On Your Side, "The less I can worry about the better I have enough things to worry about."

The option has been around for years but mostly in the commercial world. Now it's starting to catch on for the average consumer.

Ken Lawton is the founder and managing partner of Go Nitro Tire. He said nitrogen allows better performance and better fuel economy. It is true that nitrogen leaks out as much as 40 percent slower than compressed air, so the need to fill your tires is a lot less often. Driving on properly inflated tires also improves gas mileage.

For years, NASCAR pit crews have used nitrogen to inflate tires because even a tiny loss of pressure can make a difference in a race. Nitrogen is used in aircraft tires too, because compressed air would allow moisture in the tires allowing ice to form at high altitudes.

But nitrogen can be costly and sometimes hard to find. 5 On Your Side called five tire stores with no luck. Then 5 On Your Side called 10 auto dealers in the area and found only four that can fill your tires with nitrogen. The going rate to get all four tires filled with air anywhere from $25 to $30.

But typically the dealerships will maintain them for a year.

Costco uses nitrogen but you have to buy the tires through their store in order to get the service. Whatever you decide, remember tire safety is mainly about wear and tear and that has to the do with the outside of your tire.