I've only driven my 2002 a few hundred miles, but the consumption page shows averages between the low and high 30mpg range. Is there a technique for maximizing the MPG in this thing. It seems the motor kicks in pretty easily even at low speeds. Everything seems to be running well, it's just that I expected better mileage which is why I invested in this thing in the first place. I know my ignorance is wearing ya'll out, but I'd really like to get a handle on this thing. Thanks, Kyle
tires 42 f 40 r mobil one 0-5 weight fill up to a point 3/4 of the way up the dipstick k&n air filter clean the cabin air filter it's located just under the glove compartment cycle the emergency brake on and off a few times jmho
Really?! That's interesting. Do I do it with the engine running or off? Thanks for the response, all simple and neat. Kyle
How long is your commute? (short commute=not warmed up=low FE/MPG) Have you tried Hypermiling techniques? Don't try to run Electric Only for long periods. It's a losing battle because the only way to recharge is via the gas engine and conversion inefficiencies will kill you (gas/regen-->battery-->elect. moter all cost FE).
My recommendation: 1-2 miles at 25 mph - if you can, cut through a neighborhood at 25 mph for the first 1-2 miles. This lets the engine warm-up and become more efficient before putting a serious load. Tires at max sidewall - this will minimize rolling drag. Oil level - needs to be below "F", say 1/4". "F" is OK but anything over "F" is bad news. Keep speed at or under 65 mph, which should give 52-53 MPG on level road and no wind and temperatures above 60F. At 70 mph, it drops to 49 MPG. At 75 mph, it drops to 39 MPG. Change transaxle oil and wipe pan - this reduces internal drag significantly. Change every 30k miles. You also need to learn about the warmup phases. It is important that within about 4-5 minutes to come to a complete stop, holding the brake, juice the accelerator, and then let the engine 'auto-stop.' This puts the car in hybrid mode and you're good to go. I also avoid speeds at 42 mph and prefer to drive either 0-38 mph or 45-65 mph. At 42 mph, the car can transition between hybrid and gas-always mode. Staying in either mode is good but a lot of transitions leads to unnecessary engine start-stops. Bob Wilson
