Myths busted: Debunking summertime gas mileage claims

 

KCPQ TV



SEATTLE -- Summertime means road trip time!  Naturally, we all want to get the most out of our cars’ gas mileage. Phil Linck from AAA talked with Q13 FOX's sister station in St. Louis about getting the most out of your car -- and why some tricks don't work.






 

More tips from AAA.com:

Plan errands in advance
When running errands, try to combine multiple tasks into one trip. Several short trips starting with a cold engine each time can use twice as much gas as a longer multipurpose trip covering the same distance when the engine is warm. Also, plan the route in advance to drive the fewest miles. Online mapping tools such as AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner are available to help plan routes and are free to all motorists at AAA.com.

Properly inflate tires
Only 17 percent of cars have all four tires properly inflated, yet the U.S. Department of Energy reports that proper tire inflation can improve fuel economy by up to three percent. It’s important not only to check tire pressures at least once a month, but also make sure it’s done correctly; a survey found 85 percent of motorists don’t know how to properly check tire pressures. Check the pressures when the tires are cold and have not been driven recently. Tires should be inflated to levels recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, not the pressure levels stamped on the tire sidewall. The proper pressure levels can be found on a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb or in the owner’s manual.

Lighten the load
A heavier vehicle uses more fuel. Lighten your vehicle by cleaning out the trunk, cargo areas and passenger compartments. Also try to avoid using a car’s roof rack to transport luggage or other equipment—especially over long distances on the highway. A loaded roof rack affects the vehicle aerodynamics and creates extra drag that reduces fuel economy.