Checks
| Action
|
DEFINITION: Fuel
economy, as measured by an actual road test, is noticeably lower than expected.
|
Preliminary Checks
|
| • | Check the air cleaner element, or the filter, for dirt or being plugged. |
| • | Visually and physically check the vacuum hoses for splits, kinks, and proper connections as shown on the Vehicle Emission Control Information label. |
| • | Check the driving habits of the owner for the following items: |
| - | The A/C is ON full time, or the defroster mode is ON? |
| - | The tires for being at the correct air pressure |
| - | Excessively heavy loads being carried |
| - | Aggressive driving habits |
| • | Suggest to the owner to fill the fuel tank and to recheck the fuel economy. |
| • | Suggest to the driver to refer to Important Facts on Fuel Economy in the owner manual. |
|
Fuel System Checks
|
|
Ignition System Checks
|
| • | Check the spark plugs. Remove the spark plugs and check for the following: |
| • | Check for an open ignition control (IC) circuit. |
| • | Check the ignition wires for the following items: |
| • | Check the KS system operation. |
|
Cooling
System Checks
|
| • | Check the engine coolant level. |
| • | Check the engine thermostat for always being open or for the wrong heat range. Refer to
Thermostat Diagnosis
in Engine Cooling. |
|
Additional Checks
|
| • | Check for proper calibration of the speedometer. |
| • | Check for dragging brakes. |
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