[Hellen4Wheels]

Thought this was interesting especially since gas prices are expected to continue to rise: Gas Saving Tips That Don't Work

 

[Parkers09xB]

Interesting. Sometimes the windows down is so nice though!

 

[TartanJack]

Windows has more to do w/ speed. At 35-or-so, it's pretty irrelevant. But @ 60 and up, the difference is HUGE. I remember a Mythbusters program where they tested the a/c vs. windows one and they found the a/c was much more efficient at a higher sustained speed.

The tire one has always perplexed me . . .
It dates from a time when tires where a different shape than today and it had to do w/ resistance, like a train car truck/wheel has a tiny contact patch and takes little effort to get started moving and a LOT to stop. The most important thing on tires is to have the PROPER inflation- as the tire patch is crucial for vehicle starting, stopping, and turning. Unlike trains, vehicles don't have rails to control direction and a mile or 2 to stop from 60MPH. Traction is actually KEY to vehicle efficiency, otherwise a vehicle would drive like a Big Wheel. "Traction is overrated" is FUN, but far from the efficient way to go.

I like the linked article. Thanks for posting it!

 

[gr8scape]

Nice article. I was surprised not to see the throttle body spacer and tornado type devices listed.

 

[Brewski]

Nice article. I was surprised not to see the throttle body spacer and tornado type devices listed.

Could it be that they just don't work?

Directly from the article:

"Where there's a need, there's a product, but that doesn't mean it actually works. Our desire for better fuel economy seems answered by fuel additives and even bolt-on devices -- but they're a complete waste of money according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)."

Brewski

 

[TartanJack]

One thing I would add . . .
Airfilters is a matter of HOW dirty it is. Over cleaning or replacement isn't needed (waste of money), but it does make a difference if it is REALLY dirty. Again, follow the manufacturer's recommendations on replacement and cleaning.
It IS a "wear item" and does need eventual replacement/cleaning. Just, don't do it to early and expect it to make a difference.

I cleaned out my CAI filter recently and was surprised how dirty it was. Of course since around here there are LOTS and LOTS of dirt and gravel roads, plus the "sandhills" start just south of me, there is a fair amount of road grime on a regular basis. Add to that it has been nearly 40,000 miles (recommended 30,000-50,000 miles between cleanings). It made some difference.
But, there would be no need/advantage to clean/change the filter early.

 

[Roller_Toaster]

Soo, would some window vent visors counter the whole "windows down at 60 vs A/C" thing?

 

[Geezer]

The way you drive has more impact on mileage than anything else. It amazes me how many people think there is some kind of prize for being the first person to the next red light.