Gasolineprices have risen well above $4.00 a gallon in most every state across thecountry. The average U.S.family with two drivers is now paying nearly $1,000 more annually for gas thanthey were just two years ago according to a recent study by research gurus,Sperling's BestPlaces. Although there are practical steps you cantake to increase gas mileage, Better Business Bureau warns consumers to be waryof gas-saving claims that empty your wallet, instead of saving you fuel.
Manywebsites make unbelievable claims for various after market automotive devices(fuel-line magnets, air bleed devices and retrofit gadgets) and oil andgasoline additives that supposedly increase gas mileage for automobiles. TheFederal Trade Commission found many of these claims to be either false oroverly exaggerated.
“Summertravelers should shop around. Nowadays, many smartphones have apps specificallyfor finding the cheapest gas prices in your area,” said Robert Shomphe,President/CEO. “You may even want to consider getting a credit card that givesyou cash back bonuses on gas purchases.”
Beforeadding any fuel savings device to your vehicle, check with your mechanic. Youmay end up with a voided manufacturers warranty and serious engine problems byadding after market devices to your engine.
What youspend at the pump is influenced by how you drive and what type of gasoline youuse to fill your tank. As we reach the peak of summer travel, here are sometips on what you can do to save fuel consumption:
Choose the right octane for your car. Check your owner’smanual to find out what octane your car requires. Keep in mind that the higherthe octane, the higher the price.
Keep your engine tuned. Studies have shownthat a poorly tuned engine can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10 to 20percent depending on a car’s condition. Follow the recommended maintenanceschedule in your owner’s manual; you will save fuel and your car will runbetter and last longer.
Don’t let your engine run at idle any longer thannecessary.An engine actually warms up faster while driving. With most gasoline engines,it is more efficient to turn off the engine than to idle for any period longerthan 30 seconds.
Drive more efficiently. Stay within theposted speed limits. The faster you drive the more fuel you use. Set yourcruise control on highway trips. This can help maintain a constant speed and,in most cases, reduce your fuel consumption.
Keep your tires properly inflated and aligned. Automobilemanufacturers must place a label in the car stating the correct tire pressure.If the label lists a psi (pounds per square inch) range, use the higher numberto maximize your fuel efficiency.
Anticipate the driving condition. Driving smoothlyand steadily makes the best use of your fuel. If you can, avoid suddenacceleration or braking.
Change your oil and replace air filters regularly. Clean oil reduceswear caused by friction between moving parts and removes harmful substancesfrom the engine. Your air filter keeps impurities in the air from damaginginternal engine components.
For more consumertips you can trust, visit www.bbb.org/us/bbb-news.