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Consumers Warned About Gas-Saving Schemes

Few devices or additives work as advertised

By Mark Huffman
ConsumerAffairs.com

April 28, 2008
Skyrocketing fuel prices have led to new pitches for so-called gas saver devices, which promise to increase a vehicle's fuel efficiency. However, consumer authorities warn that few, if any of these devices, actually work as advertised.

"With people trying to save money on gas, I hate to see consumers waste a single dime on a product that doesn't work and will only cost them more money," said Arkansas Attorney General Dusin McDaniel.

McDaniel said he's concerned that ads for these devices have started appearing in newspapers around his state. He suspects they are also showing up in other states as well, and cautions consumers against purchasing them.

Many of these products advertise fuel savings ranging from 12 to 25 percent. However, McDaniel points out that government testing of more than 100 of these devices has not found any product that significantly improves gas mileage.

No government agency endorses gas-saving devices, despite what some ads claim. In fact, many of these products have been proven to damage cars, causing engine problems and increased exhaust emissions.

Many of the ads also feature individual testimonials about how much money they saved from a gas-saver device. In reality, however, McDaniel says very few people possess the necessary equipment and knowledge to accurately test the effectiveness of these products. Road conditions, speed, weather and the car's condition all influence gas mileage.

If you have purchased a gas-saving device and are dissatisfied with the results, McDaniel said you should first contact the item's manufacturer and request a refund, as many companies offer money-back guarantees.

Even if the warranty has expired, he said you should still attempt to negotiate a refund with the manufacturer first. If your attempt to do so is unsuccessful, file a complaint with state attorney general's office.

Meanwhile, the most effective way to improve your car's gas mileage actually costs nothing. Automotive experts say properly inflated tires, as recommended in the owner's manual, will maximize a vehicles mileage.

Avoiding jack-rabbit starts and keeping highway speeds below 60 are also helpful.

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