mileage slump

[dchamb9414]

my '02 is giving me 50 miles less per tank over the last few months. the shop put the computer reader on and got no codes, so they think i don't know what i am talking about. Who this day and age doesn't keep close watch on mileage? the only other symptom is a minor tremor on the steering wheel when idling. anyone have any thoughts on this? some say etyhonol (sp) causes this, but weve had that stuff a long time now.

 

[George]

Dave:
If you haven't changed the fuel filter lately, that may be the culprit. And, least expensive to try to make it better. Let us know....😎

 

[dchamb9414]

certainly a good place to start. i have never changed it.

 

[Skylark]

A new air filter element and some Techron Fuel additive increased my mileage. The car had about 20,000 miles on it and I noticed a gradual decrease in my mileage. You can get the Techron additive at most parts stores and I think Walmart now sells it.

 

[dchamb9414]

another good idea. glad i posted.

 

[dchamb9414]

no luck yet. what about the gasahol question? could that cause a mileage drop?

 

[George]

No idea what fuel you're using, but if not one of the big guys, I'd try 2-3 tanks of Shell premium and see if that makes any difference.

 

[dchamb9414]

i use shell midgrade now. i was told all stations have up to 10 per cent ethyl alcohol added to the gas. some stations place decals on the pumps stating this, but its not required i am told. the station i use has it on the pumps. the story is the more the alcohol, the worse the mileage. i just don't know. i changed the filter last service, though the k&n filters are supposed to be clean and re-use. they supposedly allow more air volume as well. i haven't been far since this though. i'll let you know.