Statewide Iowa — Many newer cars have a display on the dashboard that estimates how many miles you can drive before you run out of gas, but a new study finds those gadgets aren’t always accurate.
Meredith Mitts, spokeswoman for Triple-A-Iowa, says the motor club’s researchers tested the in-vehicle fuel systems that measure fuel economy and fuel range.
The report finds some vehicles underestimate the miles-to-empty, but others overestimate, which can leave you stranded if you rely too heavily on it. The best bet, Mitts says, is to keep an eye on the trusty red needle that swings from F for Full down to E for Empty.
During the wintertime, she suggests filling up even sooner, whenever you reach a half tank.
The study found the reliability of in-vehicle fuel systems varied significantly based on changes in speed, acceleration and distance. Read the full report here:
