Is this a myth?

[itsnotmydaddys]

i saw this on mythbusters, but not sure if i trust those two. my question is, do u get worst gas mileage with the ac on, as apposed to the ac being off. mythbusters said theres no difference, but what the heck.

 

[Black87LSC]

I saw that when they went around the racetrack with explorers or something? They said it is actually better to drive with the A/C on than with the windows down(drag).

 

[IL-LS]

I saw that when they went around the racetrack with explorers or something? They said it is actually better to drive with the A/C on than with the windows down(drag).

humm interesting point.. but I would have to think..

lets say windows up BOTH ways
that ac on would be worse MPG, i mean it is an extra strain running off the engine... no?

 

[Black87LSC]

Yea, I would think so. I have heard eliminating the A/C completely frees up 10-15 hp, and when the A/C compressor kicks on it would be more power lost... I think the motor would be working harder = worse gas mileage

 

[IL-LS]

thats my thoughts!

 

[mach8]

A/C on does lower your gas milage. Driving at high speeds with the window down does create drag reducing your gas milage too. But at low speeds, like around town, this doesn't amount to anything.

So for best gas milage use the A/C on the freeway, keep your windows down around town. But when it's 90+ in the shade around here it's A/C full time!
Screw the gas milage.

 

[Dutch]

Yeah, what he said. If you're going slow, windows give you the best mileage, but if you're at about 45 or above, go with AC.