Gas-Saving Moment of the Day: Beware the Quick Fix

One of the overriding rules of life is that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Keep this in mind before you run out and buy one of the many products that claim they can improve your car’s fuel economy.

These gadgets abound, and they’re certainly not doing themselves any favors with names like Turbonator, Spiral Max, Magnetizer or FuelSaver 7000 (unless it’s a robot assassin from the future, any product with any amount of thousands following it deserves skepticism). They claim to save fuel through various means, most of which sound specious and none of which the EPA or Federal Trade Commission have found to work.

The products range from $35 to $170 depending on what kind of technology they use, but the only alterations that are guaranteed to improve your vehicle’s mileage will cost you much more. Upgrades like improved mufflers or new efficient exhaust systems will improve your mileage but could cost you more than $1,000.

The bottom line? Take a look at some of our other Gas-Saving Moments to find easier, cheaper ways to save gas and money before trying the quick fix.

Do Fuel-Saving Gadgets Take You for a Ride? (The Wall Street Journal)

Related:
More Gas-Saving Moments of the Day (KickingTires)