GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 1998 🢒 Sonoma Pickup - 2WD 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Controls - 2.2L 🢒 Poor Fuel Economy

Poor Fuel Economy

Checks

Action

DEFINITION: Fuel economy, as measured by an actual road test is noticeably lower than expected. Also, economy is noticeably lower than it was on this vehicle at one time, as previously shown by an actual road test.

Preliminary
    • Refer to Symptoms .
    • Search for service bulletins.
    • Check owners driving habits.
       - Is A/C ON full time (Defroster mode ON)?
       - Are tires at correct pressure?
       - Are excessively heavy loads being carried?
       - Is acceleration too much, too often?

Fuel System
    • Check the fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .
    • Check the fuel injectors. Refer to Sequential Multiport Fuel Injector Balance Test .
    • Check for contaminated fuel. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis .
    • Ensure each injector harness is connected to the correct injector/cylinder. Refer to Engine Controls Scematics.
    • Check for fuel in the pressure regulator vacuum hose.
    • Check for proper operation of the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) control system.

Sensor/System
    • Check the Oxygen sensor (O2S 1). The O2S 1 should respond quickly to different throttle positions. If not, check the O2S 1 for silicon or other contaminants from fuel or the use of improper RTV sealant. The sensors may have a white powdery coating. Silicon contamination causes a high but false O2S 1 signal voltage (rich exhaust indication). The PCM will reduce the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, causing a severe driveability problem. Refer to Oxygen sensor in Information Sensors/Switches Description .
    • Check the EGR valve for a stuck open pintle.
    • Check for proper operation of the MAP Sensor.
    • Check for proper operation of the TP sensor.
    • Check for proper operation of the ECT sensor.

Ignition System
    • Check for proper ignition voltage output with the J 26792 spark tester or equivalent.
    • Check the spark plugs for the following conditions:
       - Check for wet or fuel fouled spark plugs.
       - Check for cracks on the spark plugs.
       - Check for wear.
       - Check for improper spark plug gap.
       - Check for burned electrodes or heavy deposits.
    • If the spark plugs are fuel or oil fouled, the cause of the fouling must be determined before replacing the spark plugs.
    • Check the Ignition Control Module (ICM) for proper ground connection.
    • Check the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking.
    • Check the spark plug wires for proper resistance and condition.

Engine Cooling System
    • Check engine coolant level for being low. Refer to Engine Cooling.
    • Check for incorrect or malfunctioning engine thermostat. Refer to Engine Cooling.

Engine Mechanical
    • Check engine mechanical for the following:
       - Check compression.
       - Sticking or leaking valves.
       - Worn camshaft lobe(s).
       - Valve timing.
       - Bent push rods.
       - Worn rocker arms.
       - Broken valve springs.
       - Excessive oil in combustion chamber-Leaking valve seals.
    • For incorrect basic engine parts. Inspect for the following:
       - Camshaft
       - Cylinder heads
       - Pistons, etc.
    • Refer to Engine Mechanical.

Additional Checks
    • Check TCC operation. Refer to Torque Converter Clutch in Transmission Diagnosis.
    • Check exhaust system for possible restriction. Check for the following:
       - Inspect exhaust system for damaged or collapsed pipes.
       - Inspect mufflers for heat distress or possible internal failure.
       - For possible plugged Three-Way catalytic converter. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Diagnosis