Thursday, April 13, 2006
ATLANTA -- Metro gridlock is one of our biggest challenges – we burn gas just sitting in traffic! But Consumer Advisor Clark Howard is burning much less, since he made a switch – to a scooter.
Clark says his new mode of transportation to work goes 45 miles per hour and gets 75 miles per gallon.
Scooter sales are soaring, but obviously this option is not for everyone – and if you’d prefer to keep driving on four wheels, there’s something Clark wants you to do!
“Keep the air in your tires at the correct pressure. Each manufacturer specifies the pressure for tires on a vehicle. Doing that can save 2 miles per gallon if you’re too high or too low,” says Jonathan Linkov.
Another easy fix – take all that stuff out of your car!
The extra weight in your trunk or back seat really reduces fuel economy, and right now, every pound counts! That’s why Consumer Reports auto editor, Jonathan Linkov recommends a second step.
“Roof racks – if you have a big cargo carrier, bike carrier, that’s all drag. If you’re not going mountain biking, or kayaking, take that stuff out and put it in the garage,” says Linkov.
We also asked Consumer Reports about all the new devices and additives being sold to save gas – Linkov says don’t waste your money.
“None of them work,” he says.
But what does work? We’ve got lots of choices in metro Atlanta, including warehouse clubs, supermarkets and the big independents – QT and RaceTrak. Don’t buy premium gas, unless your engine is supercharged. And finally, if you’re considering a hybrid, it’s going to be good for the environment, but not really for your wallet. That’s because the added cost is not something you’ll recover in the gas savings for a long time, Clark says.
Consumer Reports also recommends proper maintenance on your car to improve gas mileage – including regular oil changes and tune-ups.
Copyright 2006 by WSBTV.com. All rights reserved
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