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 previously shown by
an actual road test on this vehicle.
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Preliminary Checks
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• | Check the air cleaner filter for dirt or being plugged. |
• | Visually and physically inspect the vacuum hoses for splits, kinks,
and proper connections. |
• | Perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic System Check. |
• | Check the driving habits of the owner. |
• | Is the A/C ON full time? Is the defroster mode ON? |
• | Are the tires at the correct pressure? |
• | Are any excessively heavy loads being carried? |
• | Is the acceleration too much, 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. |
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