zilla

Recently bought low mileage 94 wagon with sub 90K. Very clean. First few tanks were 25-27 mpg overall average. Suddenly I'm hard up to break 20 mpg and I can almost watch the fuel guage move. After warm up fuel smell adorns the cabin. Had O2 sensors replaced. Problem persists. Runs fine. No codes. Less smell with vent/ac fan off and drivers side windows shut. No puddles, no damp spots underneath. I'm wondering if there is a well known malfunction that causes these conditions. So far after searching forum the guys with the same type issues come up with "you're on your own" let us know what you find out. We bought the car hoping to save some money on gas and repairs.
Don't have the dough to pay full shop rate to trouble shoot a vague issue. Mechanic couldn't smell the fuel, even though my 9 year old could. (and so can I) HELP!

RickMN

You bought a Taurus to save money on repairs? Sorry, I'll bite my tongue. You obviously have a fuel leak if you're smelling gas. It's either the fuel pressure regulator, the O rings that seal the fuel injectors, a leaking valve in the fuel pressure rail, or it's coming from the charcoal canister. Fuel leaks in the engine compartment are hard to find because the heat makes the fuel evaporate so quickly. So what you have to look for are the clues left behind. Look for areas that appear to be clean where the surrounding areas are not clean. That's a clear sign of a leak because the fuel washes off any grease or dirt. 25-27 mpg city/hwy for a Taurus is unrealistic. 20mpg is much more like it. Especially if you're running the A/C.

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I'm a retired ASE Master/L-1 Technician. I still keep current with the latest automotive technology. Visit my blog for cool articles and TSB's: http://www.ricksfreeautorepairadvice.com/

zilla

Thanks I'll give a look around nice and close. Now that I think about it, the first couple tanks had a lot of hwy driving. Back and forth to the beach and whatnot. Regardless, I should be getting better MPG than my wifes Bravada.