Connecticut Better Business Bureau warns drivers to be wary of gasoline-saving devices and additives

PRLog (Press Release) – Jul 08, 2008 – With the price of gasoline at more than $4.00 per gallon, a growing number of “gas-saving devices” and additives are being touted on the Internet as money-savers, however,  Connecticut BBB warns these may simply help empty your pockets with questionable technology, none of which is approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

According to Connecticut BBB President Paulette Hotton, there are a number of reasons to steer clear of these devices and additives.

“People are being inundated with ads that appeal to their frustration about high fuel costs. Some web sites boast their products can increase fuel efficiency as much as 40 percent but, despite the advertising claims, BBB advises drivers there is no simple, single way to improve fuel economy.”

A Washington, D.C.-based technical consulting firm, Energy and Environmental Analysis Inc., estimates 99 percent of aftermarket products do not change fuel economy.  

While the EPA says most of these products are harmless, some may cause a substantial increase in exhaust emissions, therefore increasing the chances of engine damage.

Connecticut BBB recommends being particularly skeptical if ads claim:

Federal Endorsement: While the EPA evaluates claims of fuel savings by these companies, no federal agency endorses gas-saving devices or additives.

Glowing Consumer Testimonials: Marketing materials from these companies may feature fictional consumer testimony.

Outstanding, Too-good-to-be-true Results: If a gas-saving product really could increase gas mileage by 40 percent with little effort or money, it is highly unlikely the investor needs to peddle the product through spam e-mails and tacky-looking web sites.

There are a few tried and true methods to decrease your fuel consumption, none of which requires outlay of any money for gadgets and additives:

Stay within the speed limit – Mileage performance tends to decrease at speeds over 60 miles per hour.

Avoid jackrabbit” starts and stops – You can reduce gas consumption by five percent around town if you accelerate slowly from a dead stop and avoid pushing the accelerator more than one-quarter of the way.  This allows the carburetor to function at peak efficiency.

Use overdrive gears and cruise control – Both help reduce highway fuel consumption.

Remove excess weight from the trunk – An extra 100 pounds can increase a vehicle’s fuel economy by 2 percent.

Keep your car properly maintained – Replacing old filters may increase gas efficiency by 10 percent.  Ensure tires are properly inflated, and your car is tuned-up.  The out-of-pocket cost of this will quickly be offset by longer term fuel savings.

Consolidate trips - A cold start uses more fuel than when you’re engine is already warm.  Try and group your errands together.

If you decide to buy a gas-saving device or additive, your BBB recommends consumers check out companies’ Reliability at www.bbb.org.

You will find information on government reviews of these devices and additives at http://www.epa.gov/oms/consumer/reports.htm.