As Gas Prices Rise, So Do Scams

Gas prices are reaching all time highs. So too is the volume of advertising for “gas-saving” products, designed to appeal to consumers looking for ways to improve fuel efficiency. Although there are practical steps car owners can take to increase gas mileage, be wary of gas-saving claims for automotive devices. What’s more, you could end up with serious engine problems or a voided manufacturer warranty by adding after-market devices to your engine.

Osceola Garage recommends being particularly skeptical of the following kinds of advertising claims:

• “Product improves fuel economy by 20 percent.” The Environmental Protection Agency has evaluated or tested more than 100 alleged gas-saving devices and has not found any product that significantly improves gas mileage. In fact, some “gas-saving” products may damage a car’s engine or cause substantial increases in exhaust emissions.
•  “I got an extra 4 miles per gallon with your product.” Although ads may feature glowing customer testimonials, consumers should keep in mind that few people have the ability or the equipment to test for precise changes in gas mileage after installing a gas-saving product.
• “Approved by the Federal Government.” No government agency endorses gas-saving products for cars.

Instead of searching for miraculous gas-saving products, we recommend that consumers consider taking one or more of the no cost or low-cost actions that can help drivers save on gas consumption. The most important place to start is at the gas pump; buy only the octane level gas you need. Here are more tips to help you get better gas mileage:

• Drive more efficiently. Stay within posted speed limits. Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 miles per hour.
• Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and stops. Accelerate slowly when starting from a dead stop.
• Use overdrive gears and cruise controls when appropriate. They improve the fuel economy of your car when driving on a highway.
•  Keep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10 percent.
• Remove excess weight from the trunk.
• Properly maintain your car. Keep the engine tuned, tires inflated and aligned, change the oil on schedule, and check and replace air filters regularly. Replacing clogged filters can increase gas mileage up to 10 percent

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

The United States government has passed legislation that requires all new passenger vehicles (beginning with 2007 model year vehicles) to be equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems. The main purpose of these systems is to warn the driver if their tires are losing air pressure, leaving the tires under inflated and dangerous.Maintaining the correct tire pressure for a vehicle is the variable in how much load its tires can safely carry. The correct pressure will carry the weight without a problem. Too little tire pressure will eventually cause catastrophic tire failure.

Studies have shown that running tires with too little air pressure is not uncommon. It’s been estimated that about one out of every four vehicles on the road is running on under inflated tires. This also means that one out of every four drivers is needlessly sacrificing their vehicle’s fuel economy and handling, and reducing their tires’ durability and tread life.

Below are typical dashboard warning lights alerting the driver of a tire not inflated properly. For more information you can go to: http://www.checkmytires.com/ or you can always ask us.

Typical dashboard tire pressure monitor warning lights

Although it becomes law in 2007, many vehicles built in the last few years have been equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems. While we see the importance of this system we feel obligated to let our customers know that this technology is new and has many problems and flaws. We have already seen many false warning lights. The systems are complicated and special equipment is needed for some vehicle models to reset the light. Also, the sensors in the wheels can wear out or become damaged and may have to be replaced in the future.

It’s our advice that you still practice common sense and have you tire pressure checked at least once a month. And please remember, most vehicles manufactured prior to 2007 do not have a tire pressure monitoring system. As always, if you have a question about your tires or need your tire pressure checked, just stop by. We will be glad to check your tires and refill to the proper inflation at no charge.