Top 10 Fuel-Efficiency Myths Busted

Fuel economy has always been one of the most talked about subjects in the world. Even the owners of the most expensive cars think about economy every now and then. This is why we have so many myths about fuel efficiency and if you have not updated yourself, the chances are bright that you might be living in a land of myths.

Here are 10 most popular myths busted, you will be amazed to know the facts eventually.

Myth 1:

Fuel doesn’t evaporate if the tank is full.

Fact:

In modern cars the fuel system is carefully sealed so it really doesn’t matter how full the tank really is.

Myth 2:

You can save fuel at stops if you put the vehicle into neutral.

Fact:

Fuel-injection systems used in new vehicles automatically control the flow of fuel to car engine when it’s at idle and would not over-rev.

Myth 3:

You will get better mileage if you have a manual transmission.

Fact:

Few years back, it was true to some extent but today’s automatic transmissions are comparatively more efficient than manuals.

Myth 4:

You will get lower mileage if the air filter is dirty.

Fact:

In older engine it did play some role but today’s modern engines are computer controlled and capable of adjusting air flow for best economy.

Myth 5:

Air temperatures play vital role when filling up any vehicle as cooler liquids are denser.

Fact:

Every filling station has its storage tanks buried in such a way so they wouldn’t be affected by the temperature above ground.

Myth 6:

Putting the vehicle on cruise control efficiently saves plenty of fuel.

Fact:

It may work on highways and over flat terrains or when you are on long trips but on the hills, it would consume more fuel than most drivers as it accelerates harder on hills.

Myth 7:

The mileage can be increased by using fuel additives.

Fact:

It would only work if your car’s fuel injectors are really dirty.

Myth 8:

When the cars age, fuel economy drops.

Fact:

Only if you don’t maintain your car properly, but if properly maintained, the difference would be next to none.

Myth 9:

If a tank is topped off, it would give a bit more range on the next fill-up.

Fact:

The evaporative emissions system can be damaged if you keep on pumping after auto shut-off. So you don’t have to believe in this myth.

Myth 10:

The mileage can be improved by lowering the tailgate of the truck.

Fact:

All the vehicles are built on aerodynamics, so lowering the tailgate eventually would reduce the mileage instead. And those plastic mesh tailgates are even the worst.

Hope it will provide a better insight on fuel economy.