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CBS4 Puts Fuel Additives To The Test

DENVER (CBS4) - Some people save money on gas by using those fuel additives that can be purchased right at the pump at some gas stations. CBS4 consumer reporter Jodi Brooks put one of the additives to the test.

Thirty-five King Soopers fuel centers offer the additives that promise to make a vehicle more fuel efficient.

Additech engine cleaners are supposed to clean a vehicle's engine and improve gas mileage.

"I don't think it really helps your engine as much as they advertise it," consumer Laramie Reece said.

Reece conceded that he's never used the product and doesn't know anybody who has.

"I have never tried it but I would like to," consumer Michelle Palmer said. "I think I'm going to try it the next time I get gas."

Kelli McGannon is a spokesperson for King Soopers.

"Consumers are using it, consumers choose it, it's available if they want it. It's just an option for them," McGannon said.

CBS4 went to the National Center for Vehicle Emissions Control and Safety at Colorado State University in 2008 to test the product.

First a car was tested before putting in the Additech. They conducted what's called a "town and country" cycle -- up to 58 miles per hour and averaging 30 miles per hour to simulate an urban commute. The car averaged 20.95 miles per gallon.

Next the car was given the gas with Additech mileage booster. The same tests were run four times. With the additive it was 19.93, slightly less, but statistically insignificant.

"Every car is different, every engine is different, and it's needs are different," McGannon said. "So it's there as a customer option for them."

Additech runs anywhere from a $1.99 to $9.99.

CBS4 contacted the state about the additives and they said they don't test them or regulate them. They simply say to let the consumer be the judge.

It's recommended having at least one full tank of gas with Additech to see if it works.

Additech has done its own testing that shows fuel efficiency improvements in some cases as much as 10 percent.

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