Checks
| Action
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Definition: The fuel economy, as measured by an actual road test, is
noticeably lower than expected. Also, the economy is noticeably lower than
it was on this vehicle at one time, as previously shown by an actual road
test.
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Preliminary Checks
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| • | Check the air cleaner filter for dirt or being plugged. |
| • | Visually (physically) check: The vacuum hoses for splits, kinks,
and proper connections. |
| • | Perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic System Check. |
| • | Check the driving habits of the owner: |
| - | Verify if the A/C is On full time. |
| - | Verify if the defroster mode is ON |
| - | Verify that the tires are at the correct pressure. |
| - | Verify that there are not any excessively heavy loads being carried. |
| - | Verify that the acceleration is not too much or too often. |
| | Suggest to the owner to fill the fuel tank and recheck the fuel economy. |
| • | Suggest to the driver to read the Important Facts on Fuel Economy
in the Owner Manual. |
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Fuel System Checks
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Cooling System Checks
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| • | 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
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| • | Check the transmission shift pattern. |
| • | Check the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) operation. When the TCC
is commanded ON, a Scan Tool should indicate an RPM drop. |
| • | Check the Service Bulletins for any control module software updates. |
| • | Check for dragging brakes. Refer to the appropriate service manual. |
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