Improved MPG Checklist Thread

[svxxx26]

Originally Posted by Subix

Well.... maybe I should have used a different thread title, such as "Things to keeping your SVX running optimally smooth". This wasn't exactly to rant about mpg being that terrible exactly (granted, it's not going to be all that great anyways), only addressing things that could adversely affect it, even at most minimal. Not driving like grandma.

Besides, we all know waxing your car increases MPG by at least 3 a'gallon!

Sorry I helped hijack your thread!

To get back to your point, I have a simple philosophy - fix things that break right NOW, don't let them pile up on you. Keep the fluids changed out on a regular basis. Keep the car clean, inside and out. Keep your eye on the manufacturers suggested schedule and follow it as a minimum. And yeah keep it waxed!

[Nevin]

I have to agree with whoever suggested that this idea is kind of..."silly?" I mean, sure it's great to keep your car in optimum running condition, so if it's runnng like it should it should be at it's prime.

All the things mentioned so far just seem like common sense that all motorists should be aware of.

Not trying to bash anyone's efforts to conserve fuel/get better mileage; I'm all for it! But it's just simple everyday things that help make your car run like a champ.

I don't even consider my SVX to be in optimal shape (although it runs well) and I get like 22 mpg. around town, and on my last road trip I got 30 mpg. right on the nose. I'm also not afraid to put my foot down, and on that particular trip I got my 30 mpg tank with the cruise off. Coasting up hill and accelerating slightly downhill is your friend! lol

[newsvx]

My 2 cents:
Driving manner is a prime factor in mileage, but of course, the vehicle is THE prime factor. Proper tune, etc have an affect as well as all those mentioned. I would add one more, and that is proper alignment.

■ New Spark Plugs
■ New Oxygen Sensors
■ Matching and properly inflated tires
■ Clean or Replace PCV valve
■ Change oil & filter every 3,000 miles
■ Check coolant fluids
■ Clean Fuel Injectors
■ Replace Air Filter
■ Replace Fuel Filter
■ Fuel Pressure Check
■ Use only Premium 91+ Gasoline
■ With an A/T keep the tach between 2200 and 3000 rpm when driving below 45mph.
The A/T torque converter is more efficient in this range.
■ Keep the engine running when stopped for a few minutes
otherwise the ECU goes back into open loop mode.
■ Drive down hill using the trans for braking to warm-up the engine and trans.
■ Change the o-ring on the fuel injectors. On the old engines they are hard and leak.
■ Drive with the TC lock-ed up at 45mph to get the best MPG.
■ ALIGNMENT


Harry

[PDSides]

Assuming you utilize all the good advice given here and still want to add MPG to your average, let me recommend a change in driving style that is relatively easy to make and greatly improves your safety as well. When driving try to look ahead (briefly) as far as possible down the road. Become more aware of others and what they are doing. Glance often in your mirrors to make certain you are aware of traffic all around you. Don't become overly fixated on cars directly in front of you. To do so limits the time you have to react. Don't let yourself be surprised by anything that happens on the road. With this, you will learn to anticipate slow-down conditions as they develop. Hard braking to cope with sudden slow-down wastes fuel. Conversely, openings for speed become more apparent and you can ease into them more smoothly and with more fuel efficiency. Smooth driving habits increase fuel efficiency, and they also increase driving safety. Best wishes.
Preston