Everyone wants to save money at the pump, but not all advice is created equal. In fact, some common gas-saving “tips” can end up costing you more or doing absolutely nothing. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest gas-saving myths that are wasting your time—and your money.
- Myth: Premium Gas Improves Fuel Economy in Any Car
Unless your vehicle requires premium gas (check your owner’s manual), paying extra for higher-octane fuel won’t boost fuel economy or engine performance.
- Truth: Stick with regular unleaded if your car is designed for it.
- Myth: Filling Up Early Morning Always Gets You More Gas
While it’s true that gasoline can be denser at cooler temperatures, modern underground fuel tanks keep gas at stable temperatures year-round.
- Truth: Morning fill-ups offer little, if any, measurable difference in the amount of fuel you get.
- Myth: Idling Is Better Than Restarting Your Engine
Many believe restarting the engine burns more fuel than idling, but today’s engines are highly efficient.
- Truth: Idling for more than 30–60 seconds burns more gas than simply turning your engine off and restarting it.
- Myth: Keeping Your Tank Full Improves Mileage
Some drivers believe that having a full gas tank improves vehicle performance or prevents fuel evaporation.
- Truth: Carrying extra weight actually decreases fuel economy. Keep your tank between one-quarter and three-quarters full for optimal performance.
- Myth: Manual Transmissions Are Always More Fuel-Efficient
Manual cars were once more fuel-efficient, but modern automatic transmissions have caught up or even surpassed manuals in efficiency.
- Truth: Transmission type is less important than how you drive.
- Myth: Using Fuel Additives Guarantees Better Mileage
There are countless products claiming to boost your MPG (miles per gallon), but most have little scientific support.
- Truth: Top Tier gasoline already contains cleaning agents that keep engines running efficiently. Stick to trusted fuel brands instead of unverified additives.
- Myth: Tapping the Gas Quickly Burns Less Fuel
Some drivers think that “pulsing” the accelerator while driving conserves gas.
- Truth: Smooth, consistent acceleration and maintaining a steady speed are far more effective for fuel savings.
- Myth: Small Cars Always Get Better Mileage Than Larger Vehicles
While smaller cars tend to be more fuel-efficient, hybrid SUVs and crossover vehicles can sometimes outperform older compact cars in real-world MPG.
- Truth: Compare EPA mileage ratings and real-world tests rather than assuming based on size.
- Myth: Turning Off the AC Saves Massive Fuel
Air conditioning does use energy, but rolling down windows at highway speeds increases aerodynamic drag, which can hurt fuel efficiency even more.
- Truth: Use AC smartly, especially at high speeds, to maintain better MPG.
- Myth: Driving Slower Always Saves Fuel
While driving at very high speeds dramatically lowers fuel economy, driving too slowly (below optimal speeds) can also decrease efficiency, especially on highways.
Truth: The “sweet spot” for fuel efficiency is usually between 45 and 65 mph, depending on the vehicle.
Key Takeaway:
Avoid falling for gas-saving myths that do not deliver real results. Stick to proven strategies like maintaining tire pressure, using loyalty programs, driving smoothly, and avoiding unnecessary weight to keep your fuel costs truly under control.
