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 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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| • | Inspect the air cleaner element, or 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 owners driving habits 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's manual. |
|
Fuel System Checks
|
| • | Inspect the fuel type, quality, and alcohol content. |
|
Ignition System Checks
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| • | Inspect the spark plugs. Remove the spark plugs and check for
the following: |
| • | Inspect for an open ignition control (IC) circuit. |
| • | Inspect the ignition wires for the following items: |
| • | Inspect the knock sensor (KS) system operation. |
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Cooling System Checks
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| • | Check the engine coolant level. |
| • | Inspect the engine thermostat for always being open or for the
wrong heat range. |
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Additional Checks
|
| • | Check the transmission shift pattern. |
| • | Inspect for proper calibration of the speedometer. |
| • | Inspect for dragging brakes. |
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