Fuel Saving Products

Whenever the price of fuel spikes all sorts of products that claim to produce dramatic improvements in fuel consumption appear on the market. While the benefits may sound impressive, the actual results achieved may not live up to expectations. The following information will assist you in making an informed decision about the claims made for such products:

• Look for products that have been proven to work by a properly accredited local testing authority using the Australian Standard 4430.2 test protocol. Australian Standard 4430.2 is an internationally recognised test protocol that was specifically devised to test products that claim to improve performance and reduce fuel consumption.
• Some products claim compliance with test standards that have nothing to do with the products prime purpose. For example, compliance with Australian Standard 1425, LPG fuel systems for motor vehicles, might be relevant to a product fitted to a gas fuelled vehicle, however this standard has nothing to do with performance improvements or fuel savings. The Standards Australia web site is useful in identifying the prime purpose of a standard.
• Some products appear to have been tested to appropriate standards by reputable test bodies, however unless a before fitting and after fitting test result is provided it is impossible to determine if the product has produced any improvement.
• Testimonials from satisfied users should not be relied upon as there is no way of knowing if the reference is legitimate.
• Do not rely on figures produced by on road fuel consumption tests. Such tests cannot remove the influences of road and traffic conditions and weather, and therefore produce unreliable results.
• Any reports or test results, particularly from overseas and / or unknown bodies should be treated with caution.
• Assuming the product works as claimed, consider how long will it take to recover the purchase and fitting costs through reduced fuel consumption.
• In the case of fuel additives, does the value of the fuel saved outweigh the ongoing cost of the product?
• Consider the suitability, reliability, effects on emissions systems, general safety and warranty implications of any product before purchase.
• Consider the credibility of the claims made and how applicable they are to your circumstances. If claimed fuel savings sound too good to be true they probably are.
• Vehicle manufacturers spend millions to achieve small reductions in fuel consumption. If a bolt on device could demonstrate real savings at an affordable price they would be using it.

Remember also that genuine fuel savings can be achieved for no cost by making some small changes to how you use your car. For more information see our information sheet Tips for Greener Motoring.