Poor/low mpg

1993 FORD TAURUS
112,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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REALRARE50
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I have a 1993 Taurus GL with only 12K on a new 3.8L and rebuilt auto trans. There are no starting/stalling/acceleration problems, no brake drag symptoms, and passes smog with flying colors; however, it only gets 10-11mpg city/14-15mpg hwy. I use Chevron regular gas. The tires are factory size and checked for proper psi regularly ... Shouldn't my fuel economy be 5-6 mpg higher; and if so, what can be done to get it there?
Jan 9, 2011 at 5:39 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Last major tune-up?

Could be a wheel alignment, suspension,tires,transmission etc-could very well be one of the following causing it to run rich

1.Fuel pressure not within specs.Can be cause by restricted fuel return line or defective fuel pressure regulator.
2.Defective Oxygen Sensors.
3.Leaking injectors.
4.Coolant temperature sensor out of calibration.
5.Restricted air intake system.

Jan 9, 2011 at 6:13 PM
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REALRARE50
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Thanks for your response ... All valid points. As I mentioned, the engine and transmission only have 12K on them. The struts were replaced with KYB gas units and aligned recently. The tires have been recently replaced as well with factory size Michelins and pressure checked regularly; so, I doubt any of the afore mentioned are causing the problem. Is there a way to narrow your "1-5" possibilities without spending a ton of money in diagnosis?
Jan 10, 2011 at 2:33 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
Replace the O2 sensor/s if it hasn't been replace since you have the car new
Jan 13, 2011 at 3:01 AM
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