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55K MPG Lower than last Summer, what to do?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by mauricefrank, Jul 26, 2006.

  1. mauricefrank

    mauricefrank New Member

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    Hello,

    My 2004 Prius has 55,000 miles. Although my MPG is better now in the summer, it is not as high this summer as it was last summer, and last winter I noticed the lifetime average dropped more than the first winter.

    Last summer most of my tanks were in the 53-55 range. This summer I am not doing much better than 51-53.

    Do I need any service like an engine cleaning, A/C flush, or anything else other than an oil change? I do change the oil every 5K and rotate the tires every 5K.

    I have had Michelin Harmony tires since last November (39K), and they ride very well.

    About two third of my miles are highway, and I get better MPG on the highway.

    Thanks for your advice.

    Maurice Frank
     
    #1 mauricefrank, Jul 26, 2006
  2. p626808

    p626808 New Member

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    <div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mauricefrank @ Jul 26 2006, 06:27 AM) [snapback]292480[/snapback]</div>
    I have the same problem.. now 67K on my car..
    I attribute it to the new tires.. (Michelin Hydroedges)
    I think it might be the cause of your drop as well.
    The harmonies.. (I believe) have more resistance than the OEM tires.. and need more revelotions per mile.
    This would explain the 1-3 MPG drop we are experiencing.

    Scott
     
    #2 p626808, Jul 26, 2006
  3. TonyPSchaefer

    TonyPSchaefer Your Friendly Moderator
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    There are many who have replaced the stock tires with others and have noted a drop. I have the stock Integra so I can't speak from personal experience.

    What's the tire pressure you maintain?
     
    #3 TonyPSchaefer, Jul 26, 2006
  4. FireEngineer

    FireEngineer Active Member

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    If your local gas supply swithced to E10 blend recently that will account for the drop.

    Wayne
     
    #4 FireEngineer, Jul 26, 2006
  5. kirbinster

    kirbinster Member

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    I too have noticed a drop, but I switched to Michelin hydroedges and the E-10 gas sucks. The MPG has dropped on my BMW due to the gasoline also.
     
    #5 kirbinster, Jul 26, 2006
  6. usbseawolf2000

    usbseawolf2000 HSD PhD

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    Is it time to change the engine air filter? I believe the interval is every 30k miles.

    Dennis
     
    #6 usbseawolf2000, Jul 26, 2006
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