Watch MythBusters, Car Myths: Under the Hood

MythBusters has been a popular show on Discovery Channel for over a decade where hosts Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman use science and experimentation to bust common myths, urban legends, and popular beliefs. Their job is to separate fact from fiction and dispel the numerous myths that we all believe without question. In this episode, MythBusters tackles a particularly relevant topic – car myths.

Many of us have grown up hearing countless myths about cars. These myths range from the idea that driving slower always saves gas to the misconception that using a mobile phone at a gas station can cause it to explode. In this special episode, Adam and Jamie delve into the underbelly of car myths and reveal the truths and falsehoods behind them.

The episode "MythBusters, Car Myths: Under the Hood" showcases a series of experiments that are designed to test the validity of six different car-related myths. Each of these myths is tested through a series of tests that are designed to provide concrete proof either for or against the idea. The tests are always accompanied by commentary from Adam and Jamie, who explain the science behind the experiment and the methodology they have used.

The episode is divided into several sections, each of which covers a different popular car myth. The first segment focuses on the myth that cars can run on water. Adam and Jamie explore the idea that a car's engine can be converted to run on water instead of gas. They walk viewers through the entire process of converting a car engine into a water-powered engine, and then put the theory to the test. They measure the speed and efficiency of the car with gasoline and compare it to the engine powered by water. The results are staggering and provide viewers with an in-depth understanding of why this myth is just that – a myth.

Another segment features the myth that driving with windows down can save gas. The hosts attach special equipment to the windows of a car to measure fuel economy while driving with the windows open versus closed. The experiment takes place under different driving conditions, allowing viewers to see the actual results of this popular myth.

The third segment of the episode is dedicated to testing the idea that leaving a car in gear when parked can damage the gearbox. Adam and Jamie use car models with different engine types and gearboxes to test the myth thoroughly. They also provide an explanation of how the gearbox actually works and show viewers precisely why this popular belief is untrue.

The show also covers a myth that leaving a car idling to warm it up in winter is essential. Adam and Jamie take multiple cars and set them to start from a cold temperature. They then measure the fuel efficiency of each car and compare the warm-up time to the amount of gas used. The results are surprising, with neither of the scenarios providing evidence to support this popular belief.

The fifth myth that the MythBusters tackle in this episode is the misconception that using premium gas always improves fuel efficiency. Adam and Jamie explain the difference between regular and premium gasoline and what exactly occurs inside an engine when each is used. They then proceed to test the fuel efficiency and power of cars using both grades of gasoline under different conditions. The results provide important insight into whether the cost of premium gas is worth the increased price tag.

Finally, the show deals with the long-standing myth that a car can safely drive through an explosion in a gas station. Adam and Jamie use visuals and scientific explanations to highlight the reasons why this is not only a myth but also an extremely dangerous belief. They also test just how close a car can safely park to a gas pump without running the risk of an explosion.

In conclusion, MythBusters, Car Myths: Under the Hood is an excellent episode for anyone who loves cars or wants to learn more about the myths surrounding them. The episode provides an in-depth, scientific look at commonly recurring car myths and busts them with scientific evidence. It is an incredibly informative episode that uses excellent experimentation, expert analysis, and expert commentary to deliver hard-hitting facts, proving that much of what we believe about cars is just not true.

MythBusters, Car Myths: Under the Hood is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (5 episodes). The series first aired on April 16, 2009.