NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2005
Gas-Mileage Myths Debunked
Some Conventional 'Wisdom' Disputed; Better Advice Dispensed
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(AP)
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Interactive Gas Prices State-by-state averages, tips to improve mileage and a look at what fuels prices at the pump.
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Interactive Motor Away Things to know before hitting the road.
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News Tools Contact Susan Early Show consumer correspondent Susan Koeppen is ready to help you. Just e-mail her!
Consumer correspondent Susan Koeppen says much of the "conventional wisdom" on how to get the most miles-per-gallon isn't all that wise, and she reviews some surefire ways to improve mileage, on The Early Show Tuesday.
MYTHS
Gas Saving Gadgets
The Environmental Protection Agency tested about 100 of these gadgets and said most do nothing for your car. In fact, they may hurt your engine.
Using air conditioning wastes gas
Not always, according to Consumer Reports. If you're going more than 40 miles per hour, it's probably better to have the air conditioning on. But if you're driving around town at 30 miles per hour, keeping the windows down will be your best bet.
Hybrids
Are they best when it comes to gas efficiency? Not always. You need to do your homework if you're interested in buying a hybrid. Some of them, but not all of them, will save you money on gas, particularly when you factor in the purchase price.
To visit the Consumer Reports Guide to Stretching Your Fuel Dollars, click here.
VALID TIPS TO SAVE MONEY ON GAS
"No loitering"
Don't let the engine idle any longer than necessary. After starting the car in the morning, begin driving right away; don't let it sit and "warm up" for several minutes. An engine actually warms up more quickly while driving. It's more efficient to turn off most gasoline engines than to have them idle any longer than 30 seconds.
Stay warm
An engine runs most inefficiently when it's cold. It not only uses more fuel, but creates the most exhaust emissions and suffers the most wear. Avoid many short, separate trips, and unnecessary cold starts, by combining as many errands as possible into one trip.
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Best-selling author Mitch Albom on his first nonfiction work since "Tuesdays with Morrie."
