Whenever gas prices spike, people start looking for ways to cut back. There’s lots of gas-saving advice out there, but some of the tips floating around are totally bogus. Here are four you should ignore.
Myth #1 : Fill up in the morning.
Some people think it’s best to fuel up first thing in the morning - when the gas is cold. The theory is that you’ll be getting more molecules of gas in your tank because fluids are denser at lower temperatures.

You’re better off hitting the snooze alarm and saving yourself the morning trip to the pump. Consumer Reports say that gas is basically the same temperature no matter when it’s pumped.

Myth #2: Switch off the AC.
Running your air conditioning makes your engine work harder, so it’ll save gas to turn it off, right?

Actually, your AC doesn’t impact your gas mileage that much. You only lose about one mile per gallon in fuel economy with it on. So is it really worth that tiny difference to roast in your car?

And actually - driving with the windows down adds aerodynamic drag, which also makes your engine work harder. At higher speeds, you’re actually more efficient with the windows closed and AC on.

Myth #3: Overinflate your tires.
Underinflated tires are bad for gas mileage (and a load of other things), so is overinflating them going to make your car super gas efficient?

If only conserving gas were that easy. Adding more air actually doesn’t significantly benefit your gas mileage, and it is actually dangerous. The more your tires are filled, the less contact they make with the road, making it harder to brake and steer.

Myth #4: Buy fuel-saving gadgets
Some companies market devices intended to increase your fuel efficiency. Sound too good to be true?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has tested dozens of these devices and concluded that they don’t work. Some would even damage your engine.

Real gas-saving advice
As you’re gassing up your car for your next road trip, you can maximize your fuel efficiency in a couple simple ways.

• Watch your speed - your car burns more gas at high speeds.
• Maintain your vehicle to ensure nothing is making your car work harder.
• Check your tire pressure and make sure it’s at the right level.

Spending less on gas means you’ll have more money left over to do something fun, so it’s worth it to keep your car running efficiently.

Image by Andrew Taylor via Flickr, licensed under CC BY 2.0.