Checks
| Action
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DEFINITION: Fuel
economy, as measured by an actual road test, is noticeably lower than expected.
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Preliminary Checks
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• | 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. |
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Fuel System Checks
|
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Ignition System Checks
|
• | Check the overall ignition system. |
• | Check the spark plugs. Remove the spark plugs and check for the
following: |
• | Check for an open ignition control (IC) circuit. |
• | Check the knock sensor (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. |
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Additional Checks
|
• | Check for proper calibration of the speedometer. |
• | Check for dragging brakes. |
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