Fuel Economy
Getting Up to Speed
When gasoline prices go up, you look for ways to get better mileage from your car or truck. Whether you’re shopping for a new car or maintaining the one you have, here are some tips that will save you money.
Use the Octane Level You Need. Your owner’s manual tells you the recommended octane level [regular (usually 87 octane), mid-grade (usually 89 octane), and premium (usually 92 or 93 octane)] for your car. For most cars, that’s regular octane. Unless your engine is knocking, buying a higher octane than your car needs is pouring money down the drain.
Beware of “Gas-Saving” Gadgets. Be skeptical about devices that claim to boost your mileage. EPA has tested over 100 of them—everything from mixture “enhancers” to fuel line magnets—and none offered substantial savings. Some devices may even damage your engine or increase emissions. For more information and a list of tested products, visit the EPA’s Consumer Information website.
Consider the Alternatives. Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) operate on fuels like methanol, ethanol, compressed natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, or electricity. Driving a car that uses an alternative fuel may reduce harmful pollutants. The law requires labels on all new AFVs to give estimated cruising range and other important information. Compare before you buy. Find out how many miles a new AFV travels on a “tank” of fuel. Some don’t go as far as gas-powered cars.