Hello, I have a 2008 Prius and my car consistently tops out just under 40 MPG - I've never had a tank last over 325 miles. Seems like it's somewhat below the average. Does anybody have any suggestions/advice? Thanks! PS: I'm also looking for fuel-efficient tires, I'd appreciate any recommendations.
What's your driving like? How long are the trips usually, city vs highway, driving style? What tires do you currently have, what pressure are they set to? How long have you owned the car? AC usage?
We have a 2008 also. Live in central Illinois, so no mountains or such. Have consistently gotten right at 50mpg +-2. Went through the original tires, then I put on Michelin tires designed for better mpg (not as long life span), and just put on 185/65R-15 CONTINENTAL TRUECONTACT SL tires. Currently sitting at 100,000 miles. Typically drive 65 on the Interstates unless going to Texas, then I bump it to 70. I run all the tires at what the fronts are spec at (from the door sticker ). They're spec'd a couple pounds higher than the rear tires, but easier to remember just one spec. I have them rotated every other oil change. Can't think of much else. Hope this helps. Roll safely!
We're out in the suburbs but we find the car is going to be under 40 if all we're doing is around town short trips, most of the time with the air conditioner on. The thing about an average is that some are above, some are below. Otherwise it wouldn't be called an average. We noticed a big improvement in mpg when we combined the 120k service, a new 12v battery, a transaxle fluid change and popped for a set of Michelin Energy Saver tires. There's no telling how much of the improvement can be attributed to each item but the tires had to be a big factor as the previous tires were cheap, non-fuel efficient ones. A 40mpg highway trip to California City became a 50mpg trip two weeks after all the work was done on the car and the new tires put on.
I use tier 1 gas (Mobil, Shell) gives me 52+ mpg. If use a no name brand - mpg dips into the mid to upper 40s' mpg. DBCassidy