Gas Mileage Woes? Don’t Trust These Fuel-Saving Myths

We’ve all heard the tips about how to best save fuel and get the most mileage out of each tank. But, how many of these actually work and how many are myths?

Scion xB, voted worst small car fuel economy from ConsumerReports.

Below we’re busting three well-known fuel-saving myths so you can spend your energy on ideas that truly save money:

1. Smaller Car Means Better Gas Mileage
This myth is no longer true! In theory, having a smaller car may seem like you’re getting better gas mileage because you’re moving around less weight, but this actually isn’t true anymore. Many mid-sized sedans and some SUVs are getting similar gas mileage to small vehicles by using lightweight materials in addition to better engines, electric accessories and continuously variable transmissions, explains Consumer Reports. Additionally, the U.S. Energy Department explains that an extra 100 pounds in any vehicle can reduce fuel economy by 2 percent. So, as long as your car is made of lighter materials and is not overloaded, the size does not make as big of a difference.

Again, what really matters now is how the car is built and designed and the materials used to make it. With the right vehicle, and a bit of research, you can find a car that has excellent fuel economy without sacrificing size, performance or quality.

Image via Edmunds.

2. Premium Gas Gives Better Fuel Savings
There are no tests that shows a link between premium gasoline and an increase in fuel economy. Gas additives that upgrade regular gasoline to premium levels do have perks, but not when it comes to better gas mileage. The Environmental Protection Agency has tested many different types of fuel products and additives that promise to raise fuel efficiency, but has yet to find conclusive evidence that they make a significant difference.

So, save yourself the extra 10 to 30 cents at the pump, and use regular gasoline instead (as long as your car’s manual doesn’t require a different type).

3. Manual Transmissions Are Better Than Automatics
While this used to be true, thanks to our advances in technology, manual engines are no longer a leader in getting the best gas mileage. In fact, some automatic transmissions today can get better fuel economy than manual ones. These improvements have added more gears to automatic cars, which help cut down on wasted fuel.

Don’t Trust These “Fuel-Saving” Myths

These are just three of the most popular (and often misunderstood) fuel-saving myths. Don’t believe the traditional ideas about getting the best gas mileage without doing some research first. Between new technology and newly released models, it is easier to save money and get better gas mileage while driving.

Are you guilty of believing one of these fuel-saving myths? Tell us about it below.