Gas Mileage... What Can I Do??? - Ford Forums

Assassin · 11-28-2004, 17:22

Last week I bought a used 2001 Mustang (3.8L V6, 5 speed) with 60,000 miles on it.

Since that time I have been trying to figure out why I am getting such bad gas mileage.

As I'm typing this, I have 1/2 a tank spent and only 100 miles on the trip odometer. (Mind you, these are highway miles. I live about a block from the freeway and work about a block and a half away off my exit on the other end. Total trip one-way: about 15 miles.)
Everyone I ask wants to know if I'm lead-footing it and if I've modified anything. The answer to both these questions is, no... I baby this thing because I don't need the speeding tickets right now. I've got too many as it is...

What's the deal? Is there anything that can be done to get more 'bang' for my buck at the pumps?

I know that this vehicle isn't going to win any kewpie dolls for its fuel economy but is this normal for this car?

I also own an 02 Explorer with a V6 under the hood and that thing is getting 350+ miles to every tank of gas put into it (and it's alot heavier than the stang).

Thanx in Advance for your input...

outback_ute · 11-28-2004, 18:32

Make sure it is all tuned up correctly & the air cleaner is ok (good cause of increased fuel use). Since you live so close to the freeway it would be worth giving the engine a bit of a warmup before you drive, the car will run a bit richer while it warms up (also it will be better wear wise). Only a couple of minutes, you don't need it up to full operating temp before you drive off. The short trips are probably one of the main reasons for the bad economy. I'd suggest keeping track of the mileage (calculate it, don't trust the trip computer) & see how you go, it's early days yet. See how it goes on a long weekend trip or similar.

Assassin · 11-28-2004, 19:51

Thanx for the reply...

As for tuning it up properly, what should I be doing (other than the obvious stuff like plugs, wires and whatnot)?

Also, would putting a performance chip in the computer be a help or a hindrance?

**Big Block Ford** · 11-29-2004, 00:40

As outback has said, tune correctly and have a good check on the air filter system. Any restriction here from dirt or dust can cause bad mileage. If the filter has been replaced with a sponge type then be sure it is not to oily.

If it is a paper filter then replace it if dirty and if sponge then clean in a slovent like petrol then squeeze it out completly then oil it very lightly with a thin oil and squeeze out again. Too much oil will give problems.

Assassin · 11-29-2004, 01:43

I have a K&N Air Filter in it. I was going to get the Air Charger Kit but I was told that it wouldn't help with fuel economy and that it would be putting warmer air into the motor as it is made of metal...

Anything else I should be doing or looking at?

Assassin · 12-06-2004, 19:11

OK. Air intake is all nice & clean, I had a guy I know service everything (he's been building race motors and trannies for over 25 years in his own shop, so I'm pretty sure he know what he's doing) and he says it's good to go.

Now, instead of 180 to a tank, I'm looking at about 230 - 250. (This was all highway miles in 'one sitting').

Is this what all you other 3.8L Stang drivers are getting?

I still can't believe that my Explorer (same motor) is going just over 100 miles further on a tank of gas.

**Big Block Ford** · 12-06-2004, 22:26

It does sound strange. You have gained something from the tuning and intake.

I know this is a long shot but does the car roll easily. With the car in neutral can you move it or push it with the ease that you would expect. I'm just thinking if one of the brake calipers was sticking or seized or a handbrake problem or similar problem holding the car back then it would drop the mileage.

Check you tyre pressures as well. Make sure they are well inflated.

I guess the other thing is how much fuel does the Explorer tank hold compared to the Stang.

250 miles still sounds kinda low though.

Assassin · 12-07-2004, 17:47

BBF,
The calipers are not locked or tight (I've got four wheel disk brakes).
There is a difference of only 3.5 gallons for fuel tank capacity. (The Explorer, of course, having the larger one at 21 gallons).
Tires are all at correct pressures.

3.5 gallons difference should only equate to about 45-55 miles further distance, not over 100. (this number is actually right around 110).

I know for a fact the exact miles per tank the truck is getting (360, if I wait for the idiot ligt to come on) because I am the original owner. (bought it brand new in late 02)...

Assassin · 12-24-2004, 18:54

**Big Block Ford** · 12-29-2004, 15:45

Has the car had an exhaust analyser run on it to check how the engine is running. This could tell you if the engine is running rich or has a problem.

If all that is ok then maybe it is the gearing.