It’s natural to want to crank up your car’s air conditioning on hot summer days, but is it true that the AC uses more gas? Does wind resistance have an effect on gas mileage?

Video Transcription

Do I save more gas with the AC on and the windows up or the windows down and the AC off?

What’s better for fuel economy- AC off and windows down or windows up and AC on? Well, it depends on the speed. Around town you’ll probably get better fuel economy if you turn the AC off and roll the windows down. But as soon as you start traveling at highway speeds then wind resistance plays a big part in fuel economy and you’ll do better by rolling the windows up, which maintains the aerodynamics of your car and turning the air conditioning on.

About

Pat Goss is the master technician on the television program MotorWeek, where he hosts a segment called Goss' Garage. Known as "America's Most Trusted Mechanic," Pat is the President/Owner of Pat Goss Car World, Inc. in Seabrook, MD. It is considered one of the best outfitted shops in the country. He helps consumers understand car problems and teaches them how to speak the same language as their technician. Since 2008 Pat has been a spokesperson for CARCHEX, a Hunt Valley, Maryland-based company and the premier provider of Extended Auto Warranties and Mobile Vehicle Inspections.