Fake fuel hacks busted

WHILE the fuel decrease is welcome, prices remain high and hacks to decrease fuel consumption keep popping up.

However, the question is, are there any consequences to these gimmicks?

ALSO READ: WATCH: John Ross highway traffic mayhem

Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, says do not make the mistake of trying any hack in the hopes it will decrease consumption, with no effect on your vehicle if it does not.

“It cannot be stressed enough that the only thing intended to go into your fuel tank is fuel,” says Herbert.

Previously, it was revealed fuel pills were not only proven ineffective in international studies but showed the negative effects on your engine in various ways, primarily by causing carbon build-up.

“Now a gimmick is making the rounds showing the use of Coca-Cola instead of fuel. The company associated with this video has since distanced itself from it, however, if you were wondering if Coca-Cola is a safe substitute for fuel, the answer is no.

“You are likely to do damage to your vehicle that will cost much more than the potential savings.”
False fuel hacks

Other gimmicks to be wary of, according to Herbert, include:
• Ketchup/tomato sauce: This has no benefit and will damage your engine, fuel injectors and fuel filters.
• Plug-in devices: These are used by mechanics to test engines and read results but recent adverts say they can reset the computer-controlled fuel ration.
This, however, is an output port, meaning it does not accept incoming signals, making it useless in reducing consumption.
• Dishwasher tablets and toothpaste: Old content circulating claims dishwasher tablets and toothpaste can reduce fuel consumption.
Both these claims are completely false with no proven research to support it, and have since been revealed as clickbait.
• Buying fuel early in the morning: The theory is the colder fuel is, the denser it is, giving you more for the same price.
Fuel, however, is stored underground and temperatures vary by only a few degrees which is not enough to change its density.
• Over-inflating tyres: This was touted to reduce resistance and friction while driving and therefore increase mileage.
It is proven that the correct air pressure is what actually saves fuel and increases tyre lifespan.
• Not using an air con: This depends on various factors. Keeping the air con off and driving with windows closed can save fuel.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Abnormal load making way from Richards Bay to Mandeni

If, however, the windows are open, you increase drag and affect aerodynamics, which actually increases fuel consumption.

Take caution
Be cautious of the techniques employed to save fuel, especially if they involve putting foreign substances into fuel tanks, warns Herbert.

“It is not true that if it doesn’t work, ‘no harm, no foul’. It can cause a lot of harm which is not worth the supposed savings of these products,” said Herbert.

“Research proves it does not provide fuel savings and only harms your vehicle.

“You will achieve more effective results with tried-and-tested means of reducing fuel consumption.”

He said these include defensive driving techniques: keeping a three-second following distance; avoiding speeding; anticipating changing traffic conditions; avoiding reckless driving; planning routes; keeping revs below 3000rpm; and removing any unnecessary weight from the vehicle.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page  and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 060 784 2695

Instagram – zululand_observer