April 12, 2011
should i put my car in overdrive on the freeway to save gas??
i have a 1995 ford taraus. it has overdrive and i was told to put it in overdrive when on the freeway to save gas. is this true???
what are also some other great ways to save gas
what about the radio does that use up alot of gas?
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Filed under Gas Conservation FAQ by on Apr 12th, 2011. Comment. 
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Comments on should i put my car in overdrive on the freeway to save gas??
That is what overdrive is for.
Yes you should put it in Overdrive.
Other tips to save gas:
Get a tune up
Make sure your tires are properly inflated
Drive between 55 and 65 on the highway. You’ll get the optimal mileage that way.
Don’t blast the Air Conditioner, that also wastes gas.
** Using the radio doesn’t have an impact on gas mileage. And, the answer regarding putting up your windows and using the AC at highway speeds is wrong. There was a “Mythbusters” episode on that and they proved running the AC uses more gas than leaving the windows rolled down.
other ways:
use cruise control whenever possible.
always leave your windows rolled up. At highway speeds, it actually uses less gas to use your A/C than it does to roll a window down. Too much drag.
My brother is a transmission repairman. i asked him your question and this is what he said. Your transmission is designed to ALWAYS be in overdrive. Even in the city. Only take it out of overdrive when you are climbing a steep hill or are towing a heavy load with it. Your overdrive light on your shift lever should always be off unless you are climbing a hill. You will not only get better fuel mieage but your transmission will last alot longer. (They’re about $2000.00 to rebuild)
I am a certified master mechanic and have a suggestion for you….Overdrive works best if used at speeds over 45 MPH. However I don’t use Overdrive in town at speeds of 30 to 45…the reason is the Ford have a tendency to shift up and down at this speed and the torque converter locks and unlocks several times. The less shifting equal less ware. No the radio does not use gas. Best gas mileage is with tires inflated properly, engine in proper tune, using the right engine oil recommended for your vehicle, and no hard acceloration and keeping a steady speed when possible, plus changing the air filter as necessary. Having said that the key to great gas mileage is the person behind the wheel and their driving habbits…good luck….