Watch out for phony money-saving gasoline schemes

By MICHELLE SINGLETARY • The Washington Post • July 16, 2008 WASHINGTON — As gas prices continue to soar, schemers are ramping up claims that they have just the right device or additive or some other gizmo for better fuel economy. But many of the claims are misleading or fraudulent, government agencies and the Better Business Bureau contend. BBB says it has seen these scams before, especially during the gas crises of the 1970s. Typically, the schemes are for gas-saving devices that attach to your engine, special gas caps, or fuel additives. However, because some of these devices can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to $1,000 or more, you end up spending rather than saving. In general, many of these products don't produce, said Cathy Milbourn, a spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Agency. "Cars are very... [read full story]