7 Gas Saving Myths
Most people are feeling the pinch these days, and saving money on gas is a great way to keep those dollars in our purses. If you're like most drivers, you've probably come across several quick fix ideas to beat high gas prices. Here are 7 popular "gas saving" myths that do nothing to improve gas mileage.
Myth 1: Get More Gas by Filling Up in the Morning
Cold fluids are denser, and it is colder in the morning, so filling up in the morning means more gas for your buck, right? Wrong. Gas tanks are kept at a set temperature, so don't bother waking up early to buy gas.
Myth 2: Turn Off the Air Conditioner and Roll Down the Windows to Increase Fuel Economy
Driving with your windows down is no better for your gas mileage than using the air conditioner. As your car speeds up with the windows down, air flow creates a drag against the car, making the engine work harder, thus hurting gas mileage. In fact, using the air conditioner can be a more efficient option at higher speeds.
Myth 3: Letting Your Engine Idle Uses Less Gas Than Restarting Your Car
Modern cars use more gas while idling than they do starting the engine, so when you park your vehicle for a short period of time, save fuel by turning the engine off and restarting it when you're ready to leave.
Myth 4: Spoilers Make Your Car More Aerodynamic, Increasing Gas Mileage
Spoilers just add more weight to your car, making your engine work harder and lowering gas mileage. Getting rid of unnecessary junk, such as that old suitcase or toolbox in the trunk, is a great way to lighten your load and increase your fuel economy.
Myth 5: Clean Air Filters Lead to Better Gas Mileage
Keeping your vehicle's air filter clean doesn't increase gas mileage. Your engine's performance may lag if the air filter is clogged, but it won't make a noticeable change in your fuel economy.
Myth 6: Premium Gas Has Better Fuel Economy
Each make and model of vehicle requires a specific gas grade to run efficiently. Using a higher octane than required can actually make it harder for the engine to burn fuel, meaning lower gas mileage.
Myth 7: Additives Make Your Car's Engine More Efficient
If a five dollar bottle of fuel additives could drastically improve gas mileage, gas stations would be scrambling to add it to their fuel. No additive can make gasoline burn more slowly, so don't bother wasting your money.
If you're feeling pain at the pump, skip the gas-saving gimmicks and save money on your auto insurance. The InsWeb auto insurance quote form on Ask Patty can help you find the right amount of auto insurance coverage at the right price. Click here to go to the form.
Car spoiler photo courtesy of mdpettitt via flickr.com creative commons. Broken piggy bank by Michael Connors at morguefile.com
Article provided by InsWeb
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