Gas Saver Hints
Auto Advise From Boomer & X
Boomer: (Cathy) I want to clarify an issue we get often and that is air conditioning verses open windows.
X: (Melanie) I know you can yell out the open window better than you can when it’s closed with the A/C on.
Boomer: I’m serious Melanie. If your car has been sitting in the sun and is hotter inside than the outside air, it is recommended that you drive it for a few minutes with the windows open to cool it off. Then, if you’re hitting the highway, close them up and turn on the A/C. With the windows open the aerodynamics is impacted more at high speeds. If you’re not exceeding 35 or 40 mph, open windows won’t make as much of a difference. It also depends on the vehicle one drives. The impact from driving with the windows down is greater in a Chevy Corvette, which has excellent aerodynamics, than in a Hummer, which has… none. The same applies to convertibles; you’ll burn less fuel with the top up.
X: Well, we know that I won’t have to worry about a Corvette or a Hummer in my lifetime and if I have a convertible, I will opt to keep the top down when it’s top-down appropriate. However, speaking of aerodynamics, roof-top carriers, bike and ski racks don’t do you any favors, even when they are empty. If you keep your stuff inside the car, you’ll slip through the wind better. Aerodynamic engineers suggest removing bug deflectors and window and sunroof wind reflectors. I don’t know about that, bug guts on my windshield make me sick.
Boomer: Thanks for sharing! Another option to save on gasoline doesn’t have to do with the aerodynamics as much as your choice of regular or premium gasoline. Most modern cars that call for premium fuel can run on regular gasoline without experiencing a knocking sound or any long-term damage. Technically, this makes the car less efficient, but not to the degree that negates the cost savings from the cheaper fuel grade.
X: Mom, that is true of cars for which premium is “recommended”, not “required”. If in doubt, look for terms such as “for best performance” and “recommended” as opposed to “only” or “required.”
Boomer: If your car has a turbocharger or supercharger, you probably should stick with premium fuel. Of course, if your car calls for regular gasoline, there’s no reason to run it on anything higher in octane.
X: Or cost per gallon. With the price of gas today, every little bit helps even if you get bug guts on your windshield.
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