Improve Gas Mileage Without Damaging Your Car

The Truth About Gas-Saving Devices

Many gas-saving devices advertised today promise significant improvements in fuel efficiency. However, the reality is often far from these claims. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), after evaluating over 100 such devices, only a few showed any improvement in mileage, and none did so significantly (EPA).

Categories of Gas-Saving Products

Gas-saving products generally fall into several categories:

• Air-bleed devices
• Vapor-bleed devices
• Liquid injection devices
• Ignition devices
• Fuel line devices
• Mixture enhancers
• Internal engine modification devices
• Fuels and fuel additives
• Oils and oil additives
• Driving habit modifiers

EPA's Evaluation

The EPA tests these products to determine if they provide measurable improvements in fuel economy. However, they cannot predict the long-term effects on a vehicle. Some products may even harm the car or negatively impact its performance. For instance, "air bleed" devices that add significant air to the fuel mixture can cause engine misfires, especially in cars manufactured between 1974 and 1982. These cars have carburetors preset for a specific air-to-fuel ratio, and altering this can lead to engine damage.

Misleading Advertisements

Many advertisements for gas-saving devices feature glowing testimonials from satisfied customers. However, these testimonials often fail to account for variables such as traffic, road conditions, weather, vehicle condition, and driving habits. In one case, a consumer praised a gas-saving product without mentioning that their vehicle had also received an engine tune-up at the time of installation.

Government Endorsements

Some advertisers claim their products are approved by the Federal government. However, no government agency endorses gas-saving products for cars. Sellers can only state that the item has been tested by the EPA. If an advertiser claims EPA testing, ask to see the results or contact the EPA directly.

What To Do If You're Unsatisfied

If you've purchased a gas-saving product and are not satisfied, contact the manufacturer for a refund. Reputable companies offer money-back guarantees. If the company's response is unsatisfactory, reach out to your local or state consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Proven Ways to Improve Gas Mileage

Keeping your car in optimal condition is the best way to maximize fuel efficiency. Here are three simple steps to improve gas mileage:

1. Get a Tune-Up: Regular maintenance ensures your engine runs efficiently.
2. Check Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance.
3. Remove Excess Weight: Extra weight in the trunk can decrease fuel economy.

Additional Tips

For more tips on improving gas mileage, consider the following:

• Drive Smoothly: Avoid rapid acceleration and braking.
• Use Cruise Control: Helps maintain a constant speed on highways.
• Limit Idling: Turn off the engine if you're waiting for more than a minute.
• Plan Efficient Routes: Combine errands to reduce driving distance.

Interesting Stats

• Fuel Economy Improvement: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, keeping your tires properly inflated can improve gas mileage by up to 3% (Energy.gov).
• Weight Reduction: Removing 100 pounds from your vehicle can increase fuel efficiency by about 1-2% (Fueleconomy.gov).
• Smooth Driving: Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by 15-30% at highway speeds and 10-40% in stop-and-go traffic (Fueleconomy.gov).

Conclusion

While many gas-saving devices on the market promise significant improvements, most fail to deliver and can even harm your vehicle. Instead, focus on proven methods like regular maintenance, proper tire inflation, and reducing excess weight to enhance your car's fuel efficiency. Always be skeptical of extravagant claims and rely on evidence-based practices to get the most out of every gallon.

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Resource Box: Marilyn Pokorneyhttp://www.apluswriting.net/articles/gasmiles.txt Words: 622 including resource box Copyright: 2004 Marilyn Pokorney