Checks
| Action
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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.
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Preliminary
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• | Search for service bulletins. |
• | Verify 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? |
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Fuel System
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• | Inspect for fuel in the pressure regulator vacuum hose. |
• | Test for proper operation of the evaporative emission (EVAP)
control system. |
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Sensor/System
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• | The O2S 1 should respond quickly to different throttle
positions. If not, inspect 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
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• | Test for proper operation of the following sensors: |
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Ignition System
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• | Test for proper ignition voltage output with a J 26792
Spark Tester or equivalent. |
• | Inspect the spark plugs for the following conditions: |
- | Burnt 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. |
• | Inspect the ignition control module (ICM) for proper ground connection. |
• | Test the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking. |
• | Test/inspect the spark plug wires for proper resistance and condition. |
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Engine Cooling System
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• | Inspect for proper engine coolant level. |
• | Inspect/test for incorrect or malfunctioning engine thermostat.
Refer to
Thermostat Diagnosis
in Engine
Cooling. |
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Engine Mechanical
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• | Inspect engine mechanical for the following conditions: |
• | For incorrect basic engine parts. Inspect the following: |
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Additional Checks
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• | Inspect the exhaust system for the following conditions: |
- | Inspect exhaust system for damaged or collapsed pipes. |
- | Inspect mufflers for heat distress or possible internal failure. |
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