Watch Out for Gas Mileage Gadgets

You are faced with increasing gas prices and a long driving vacation during the holidays.

Are there gadgets that will help increase your vehicle’s gas mileage?

Well, don’t bet the holiday budget on it. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission warns that you should be wary of any devices and oil or gas additives that claim to save gas.

For example, there is the claim that a gadget can increase fuel economy by 20 percent. The Environmental Protection agency has evaluated or tested more than 100 of these devices and hasn’t found any product that significantly improves mileage. In fact, some may damage the car’s engine.

Sure you see ads with glowing testimonials from consumers. Well, just consider that these testimonials may be coming from people being paid to make these claims.

Some of the manufacturers claim their gas saving devices are approved by the Federal government. Well, don’t believe it. No government agency endorses gas saving products for cars. An agency might report on tests, but it does not endorse products.