Question about saving gas?

United States
June 19, 2008 9:25pm CST
Will leaving the air conditioner turned off in my car better my gas mileage? Just wondering. My mother says that it will save you gas, but, i just don't see how! Thanks in advance!
1 person likes this
3 responses
melanie652
@melanie652 (2524)
• United States
21 Jun 08
I think it does make a difference in the older vehicles. I know the gas mileage does drop when I run the air conditioner in our 15 year old car. It doesn't seem to make much difference in our newer car though.
Barbietre
@Barbietre (1438)
• United States
20 Jun 08
New studies show the opposite. The wind drag with open windows gives you poor milage. Newer cars are designed more efficiently so that the AC will not effect fuel consumption.
spalladino
@spalladino (17891)
• United States
20 Jun 08
The theory is that running the air conditioner makes the engine work harder but I've read several reports that say any gas saving is very small so why put yourself through the discomfort? Driving slower will save gas and also making sure that your tires are inflated correctly.