Tune it up, then turn it on (P.3 Portland Press Herald, ME)

[jpak]

http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/news/state/060530gassaving.shtml

WELLS — I was having second thoughts after Archie Stevens told me the four NGK Laser Platinum spark plugs he had specified for my car would cost $64. That's twice what I expected to pay. But Stevens, who owns Archie's Off Road & Performance Center, explained how the high platinum content makes these plugs wear better, and how more-complete combustion could help the fuel economy on my 2002 Volkswagen Jetta.

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Specially designed spark plugs, high-flow air filters, reprogrammed computers, free-flowing exhaust systems, synthetic oil, well-inflated tires - these are among the techniques Stevens uses to make cars and trucks go 10 percent-20 percent farther on a gallon of fuel.

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The government rates my Jetta at 24 miles per gallon in city driving, 31 mpg on the highway. I typically achieve 30 mpg, in mostly interstate motoring.

Here's my post-tune-up average, after two fill-ups: 34 mpg.

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[mainegreen]

1. Still doesn't offset the absurd cost of a Volkswagon!