Gas Saving Facts

Advertising Claims
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Gas prices have been climbing rapidly. As a result the volume of ads for"gas-saving" products is on the rise. When gasoline prices rise, fuel efficiency becomes a priority. Practical steps can be taken to increase gas mileage, though the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns you to be wary of any gas-saving claims for automotive devices or oil and gas additives. The savings have been small on the few products that actually work.

"Gas-Saving"Advertising Claims
Be skeptical of the following types of ads:

  • "This gas-saving product improves fuel economy by 20%.
Claims usually tout savings ranging from 12% to 25%. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not been able to find any product that improves gas mileage after testing more than one-hundred alleged gas-saving devices. In fact, be wary of some "gas-saving" products which could actually damage a car's engine or cause substantial increases in exhaust emissions.

Today's gas-saving products have been put into categories, and the EPA has has tried to examine at least one product in each category. See "Devices Tested by EPA" for category descriptions and product names
  • " I got an extra 4 miles [6.4 kilometers] per gallon [3.8 liters] after I installed this product."
Many ads feature satisfied customers claiming gas-saving products are working for them. Since there are numerous variables, which affect fuel consumption, including traffic, road and weather conditions, and the car's condition, it is hard for consumers to actually test these gas-saving devices.
  • "This is a Federal government approved gas-saving device."
The U.S. government does not endorse gas-saving products for cars. What has happened is the EPA has tested products or by evaluating the manufacturer's own test data and have come to certain conclusions. So, if the seller claims that its product has been evaluated by the EPA, ask for a copy of the EPA report. Or go to the Web resource: www.epa.gov.

Product Complaints and Refunds
Contact the manufacturer for a refund if you are not satisfied with your gas-saving product. Money-back guarantees are generally offered.

Shifting Gears: Real Money-Saving Steps
There are numerous no- or low-cost steps you can take to combat rising gas prices. The most important place to start is at the gas pump; buy only the octane level gas you need. All gas pumps must post the octane rating of the gas under the FTC's Fuel Rating Rule. Remember, the higher the octane, the higher the price. Check your owner's manual to determine the right octane level for your car.

Here are some additional tips from the EPA to help you get better gas mileage

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