I've heard both sides of this issue, but never from a really educated source... Any mechanics, please help. I drive a '98 Chevy Lumina 3.1 V6... Thanks.
2006-08-07 07:27:46 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Commuting
There are two answers. At low speeds, windows open. At high speeds (40+) A/C on and windows closed.
Wind drag increases exponentially as vehicle speed increases. Where A/C use draws a constant amount of power. At some point, the wind drag exceeds the amount of power the A/C uses...
2006-08-07 07:36:16 · answer #1 · answered by jasonsprouse 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have always been told that at high speeds it is better to use the a/c. The weight of the wind through the windows adds extra drag to your car and makes the car work harder. I am not a professional, but that is what I was told by my mechanic.
2006-08-07 14:33:45 · answer #2 · answered by hethbabe 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I saw the same episode of mythbusters and don't remember speed being a factor. So it seems always better gas milage with the windows down.
I was told by an auto motive instructor, ASE certified no less, the oppisite.
2006-08-07 14:39:35 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
mythbusters did two shows on this issue & i believe that they determined that under 55mph, it's better to have ac off & windows down, but over that speed, the wind resistance makes it more efficient to have the ac on and winds up. sadly through work, i can't access the mythbusters site to verify the speed, but you may want to browse their page to make sure i'm right that it's 55mph.
2006-08-07 14:35:17 · answer #4 · answered by jack spicer 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is more efficient to have the windows up....this creates less drag.
2006-08-07 14:33:06 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
on the freeway, windows up, a/c on.
in town, windows down a/c off.
if it's blistering hot, doesn't matter, a/c on.
2006-08-07 14:38:21 · answer #6 · answered by Eric F 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋