Understanding MPG’s

November 8th, 2013 by
With gas prices fluctuating and rising at random and alarming rates, it’s no wonder today’s savvy car buyers are looking at estimated MPG (miles per gallon) ratings to help them make their decision. To better understand what goes into an MPG rating, here are some helpful facts from Cactus Jack’s Auto, Arizona’s premiere buy here pay here car dealership.

Types of MPG – You’ll find the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certified fuel efficiency rating right next to the window sticker price, with the numbers broken into 3 categories:

  • City MPG: estimated gas consumption in city conditions
  • Highway MPG: estimated fuel use under highway conditions
  • Combined MPG: the vehicle’s overall fuel performance when the above two are combined, resulting in an average that is weighted by the distance covered

If you are at a used car dealership that provides guaranteed auto loans and uses a different method for listing prices and MPG ratings, you can still find a car’s fuel information. EPA certified fuel economy must be available by law and can be found at www.fueleconomy.gov.

EPA Estimates: How Accurate Are They?

EPA estimates are an excellent tool for comparing one vehicle against another, but they don’t necessarily factor in real-world driving conditions. which can produce a number that’s slightly misleading- especially for used vehicles. Here’s why:

  • EPA tests are conducted under ideal driving circumstances
  • Vehicles have been effectively and gently broken in, and are in peak mechanical condition
  • Automobiles are tested without passengers or cargo
  • No electrical accessories (A/C, etc.) are used during testing

So, if you are buying a car with bad credit from a used car dealership like Cactus Jack’s Auto, these estimates may not be very helpful. Your personal driving habits and the car’s current condition play major roles in its MPG’s.

Other factors such as manual transmission, engine size, and clean diesel options will also affect a vehicle’s MPG’s, and should be considered in addition to EPA estimates. If you’re looking to buy a used car, Cactus Jack’s Auto can help you find one with your desired MPG target. Plus, we offer guaranteed auto loans that making buying a car with bad credit a breeze. Contact Us for more information on our buy here pay here financing, or view our used car inventory.

Posted in Car Tips