Tips and Myths for Getting Better Gas Mileage
T
ips and myths for getting better gas mileage come and go like the rise and fall of gas prices. While most of the information provided to the motoring public is useful, some can be misleading or misunderstood, says the Car Care Council. A motorist called the Council for confirmation of what she has just heard on her local radio station: that you'll get better gas mileage if you switch to a higher octane (i.e. more expensive) grade of gas. Seldom true, responds the Car Care Council. The rule of thumb: stick with the fuel recommended by the car maker, as stated in your owner's manual. For most vehicles that's 87 octane. If you're in an area where regular is below 87, buy the next grade up. Under special circumstances a higher than standard grade may be recommended, but this recommendation would not be primarily for the purpose of improving gas mileage.Another query: If, as I read in a newspaper, just one tire 10% underinflated cuts gas mileage by 10%, wouldn't all four tires underinflated by that amount cost 40%? No, answers the Council. That item should have stated that if all four tires were underinflated by that amount, fuel economy would suffer by 10%. And, of course, these figures vary widely according to the vehicle and driving conditions. The fact does remain, however, that maintaining proper tire pressure conserves fuel. The Council also fields questions about devices and additives that, reportedly, can improve fuel efficiency and engine performance. Their position: investigate before investing. While there are many excellent products on the market, you should be careful about installing a device on your vehicle or pouring a chemical into your gas or oil. It could damage sensitive components. When in doubt check with an automotive technician.
Other suggestions from Car Care Council:
- Keep your engine in tune. Problems in the fuel, ignition or emission control systems hamper engine performance.
- Change oil and filter regularly.
- Drive conservatively. A heavy foot accelerating from a stop or excessive braking wastes gas.
In general, concludes the Council, keeping one's vehicle well maintained goes hand-in-hand with fuel efficiency. A malfunction in the braking system, wheels misaligned or faulty transmission all can affect vehicle efficiency.
[This article was reprinted from articles appearing in the Car Care Council's web site ] .