Checks
| Action
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Definition: Fuel economy, as measured by an actual road test, is noticeably
lower than expected. Also, the economy is noticeably lower than previous, as shown
by an actual road test.
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Preliminary Checks
|
| • | Inspect the air cleaner filter for dirt or being plugged. |
| • | Visually inspect the vacuum hoses for splits, kinks, and proper connections
as shown on the Vehicle Emission Control Information label. |
| • | Verify the owner's driving habits for the following items: |
| - | The A/C ON full time - Defroster mode ON? |
| - | The tires for being at the correct air pressure. |
| - | Excessively heavy loads being carried? |
| - | The acceleration too much, too often? |
| • | 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's manual. |
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Fuel System Checks
|
| • | Verify the fuel type, quality, and alcohol content. |
|
Ignition System Checks
|
| • | Inspect the spark plugs. Remove the spark plugs and inspect for the following
conditions: |
| • | Inspect for an open Ignition Control (IC) circuit. |
| • | Inspect the ignition wires for the following items: |
|
Cooling System Checks
|
| • | Inspect the engine coolant level. |
| • | Inspect the engine thermostat for always being open or for the wrong heat
range. Refer to
Thermostat Diagnosis
in Engine Cooling. |
|
Additional Checks
|
| • | Test the transmission shift pattern. Refer to
Harsh Shifts
in Automatic Transmission - 4L60-E. |
| • | Test for proper calibration of the speedometer. |
| • | Test for dragging brakes. Refer to the Hydraulic Brake section. |
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