Although consumers do want to save on fuel and its costs, there are certain myths about how to do so. Some of these myths have no bearing whatsoever as to how much you can save on fuel, and are just drawn up by big industries, and “experts,” in the industry, trying to get consumers to do certain things. However, they are just myths, and really will not provide you with any savings at the pump. A few misconceptions and myths about saving at the pump are:
1. Filling up your tank early in the morning. Many individuals say that this is the time of day when the fuel is cold, so it’s the best time to fill up. There is a theory that states fluids are more dense at lower temperatures, in turn, a gallon of cold gas actually has higher gas molecules than warm gas would. However, the truth of the matter is that the temperature of gas coming out of the nozzle, varies by very small degree amounts throughout the course of the day. So, if you do decide to fill up early, you will get a very small benefit, if any at all.
2. Using premium fuel over regular fuel. Many drivers believe that the owner manual of their car recommends using premium fuel, which means more fuel economy for the driver. However, pumping premium fuel is simply a bigger out of pocket expense, and will bring no benefit to drivers as far as an increase in gas mileage. Even for vehicles that suggest using premium fuel, using regular fuel will not harm the engine, as many consumers, especially of luxury vehicles, might believe. When the vehicle’s sensors detect that regular fuel is being used, rather than premium, the system’s spark plugs automatically adjust to the change. So, if you are trying to get more MPG, premium won’t do the job; in fact you are spending more money than you have to.
3. Changing your air filters. Although keeping up with the maintenance of your vehicle is essential, a clean air filter, as mechanics suggest, will not get you better gas mileage. Especially in newer vehicles, where the computer has sensors which automatically adjust the fuel-air mixture when your air filters are clogged, you will not be saving at the pump, but you will be properly maintaining your vehicle when changing air filters. The engine power will decrease when the filters are clogged, but you will not be losing on gas mileage if they are not changed.
There are several other myths about saving at the pump, including filling the air in your tires, turning the A/C on or off, and many others drawn up by mechanics and others in the industry, especially in order to get consumers into their maintenance shop, and spend money. However, most of these myths, have no bearing on your fuel usage.
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