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\ABS\Auto Blog Samurai\data\insurance\wwwallstatecom\although+many+recommending+filling+a+car+early+in+the+morning+experts+say+that+won+t+promote+fuel+efficiency_16000325_800502767_0_0_7010837_300.jpg "Although many recommending filling a car early in the morning, experts say that won''t promote fuel efficiency.")
With gas prices nearing and even surpassing $4 a gallon across the U.S., consumers may be testing a variety of tips in an effort to increase fuel mileage. To help motorists ditch the myths and choose the strategies that work, the Chicago Tribune has analyzed a list of popular ways to save fuel to see which methods actually work.
Fill up early in the morning
False. For years, drivers in hot states have heard filling their gas tank during the morning, when temperatures are coolest, will allow them to get more for their money as gasoline expands in the heat. However, the newspaper said while that strategy may have worked in the past when gas stations still stored their product above ground, these days, stations usually keep their fuel in underground tanks which are set at a cool temperature.
Air up tires
True. Under inflated tires have been proven to use up more fuel, according to the newspaper. While hyper-milers sometimes recommend driving on overly-inflated tires to preserve gas, the source said that could cause premature wear on the tread and may even compromise car safety. Motorists should be sure to maintain tire pressure at the level recommended by the manufacturer to get the best mileage.
Manual cars get better mileage
False. The source said these days, automatic transmissions often receive better gas mileage, a shock to those harboring the popular belief that driving a stick is more energy efficient. For instance, fueleconomy.gov reports the Toyota Tacoma V-6 gets 17 miles per gallon in the city and 21 on the highway with an automatic and 15/19 with a manual, while the Cadillac CTS receives 18/27 with an automatic 16/26 with a manual. However, the news source said manual cars usually cost $700 to $1,200 less than an automatic.
Use premium gas
True. Filling a vehicle with premium gasoline, even if it only requires regular, can lead to slightly improved mileage. However, the source said the improvement is only marginal, and the cost of paying for the premium gasoline will likely offset any fuel savings for most car models.
Turn off the air conditioning
True and false. While those who swear by this popular gas saving method point to the fact using air conditioning uses more fuel by putting an extra load on the engine, the source said most vehicles are now designed with efficient systems. Plus, the aerodynamic drag created by rolling down the windows will usually counteract any benefit shutting off the air conditioning initially had. The source said drivers who are traveling at speeds below 35 miles per hour may be able to save fuel with this method, as almost no aerodynamic drag is created at those low speeds.
Reducing time behind the wheel by carpooling or using public transportation are the best ways to lower gas consumption. Consumers who can't get around their daily commute can also save gas by driving under 60 miles per hour, using cruise control when possible and avoiding sudden braking or acceleration, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
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