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by photoshopdesigngeek on July 1st, 2008

photoshopdesigngeek

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Does refraining from using your air conditioner really give you better gas mileage at high speeds? At high speeds, if you have your windows open, you create alot of wind resistance because your car isn't as streamlined. What do you think?

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  • by 8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009 on July 9th, 2008

    8 Jan 2004-10 Dec 2009

    The A/C compressor draws power from the engine via belt. Engaging the A/C induces an additional parasitic loss on the engine leaving you with a choice; generate more power to compensate (using more gas) or slowing down. I generally take a 10% hit to my MPG when I use the A/C in my '94 Subi.

    Open windows also generate drag, but whether or not the resulting inefficiency is more or less than that from using the A/C depends on the car and the speed. Then again, at high speed I get a nice breeze through my vents as air is forced into them harder so I don't NEED to crack a window at interstate speeds. In fact, doing so may cause handling issues due to turbulence.

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