11/7/2009

MoneyMatters101.com Home Information about Gasoline Alternative Sources Fossil Fuels Fuel Additives: Fiction? Gas Gas Credit Cards Gas Prices Gas Saving Products Increase Gas Mileage Regular or Premium Natural Gas Renewable Fuels Ways To Save Gas Why Gas Prices Are High Links Email Us Attention Veterans! Going Green How To Save Gas	"Gas-Saving" Products When gas prices increase, so do the volume of advertising for "gas-saving" products. When gasoline prices rise, consumers often look for ways to improve fuel efficiency. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns you to be wary of any gas-saving claims for automotive devices or oil and gas additives. Even for the few gas-saving products that have been found to work, the savings have been small. Be careful of what you put into your car. Some "gas-saving" products may damage a car's engine or cause substantial increases in exhaust emissions. Be skeptical of the following kinds of advertising claims. "This gas-saving product improves fuel economy by 20 percent." Claims usually tout savings ranging from 12 to 25 percent. However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has evaluated or tested more than 100 alleged gas-saving devices and has not found any product that significantly improves gas mileage. The gas-saving products on the market fall into clearly defined categories. Although the EPA has not tested or evaluated every product, it has tried to examine at least one product in each category. Customer testimonials Many ads feature glowing testimonials by satisfied customers. Yet, few consumers have the ability or the equipment to test for precise changes in gas mileage after installing a gas-saving product. Many variables affect fuel consumption, including traffic, road and weather conditions, and the car's condition. "This gas-saving device is approved by the Federal government." No government agency endorses gas-saving products for cars. Why are gas additives sold if they have not been proven to increase gas mileage? Fuel additives are sold in automotive supply stores, on the Internet and through multi-level marketing organizations. They are not supposed to harm vehicle engines because they must be tested before they legally can be sold, Mazor said. But the tests mandated by the federal Environmental Protection Agency only require proof that the additives do not harm the car or increase the pollution it emits, he said. The tests do not have to show that the product actually improves mileage. Product Complaints and Refunds If you're dissatisfied with a gas-saving product, contact the manufacturer and ask for a refund. Most companies offer money-back guarantees. If you request a refund and are not satisfied with the company's response, contact your local or state consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau.	Featured Book Advertise on MoneyMatters101.com
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