The U.S. Department of Energy , led by senior scientist Ali Erdemir, meticulously spent 20 years studying the properties of boric acid (used most often as a mild antiseptic and eye cleanser). When using microscopic particles of the lubricious acid, the scientists discovered that it drastically reduces friction between automobile engine parts.

In laboratory tests, the boric acid lube reduced the energy lost through friction as heat by two-thirds. Erdemir believes this could easily equate to a 4 or 5 percent reduction in fuel consumption.

Additionally, replacing existing fuel lubricants with boric acid could further help the environment because most fuel additives contain sulfur and other chemicals to increase lubricity. But when burned, those chemicals can lead to acid rain and damaging emissions.

When confronted with choices such as buy a new hybrid car or inexpensively lube up the existing one, the latter sure seems easier.