2002 Dodge Dakota head gasket/ gas mileage

JEFFRINCK

MEMBER
2002 DODGE DAKOTA

Engine Mechanical problem
2002 Dodge Dakota V8 Four Wheel Drive Automatic

i just had a head gasket put on a 2002 dodge dakota and everything seems like it is fixed other then, my fuel mileage dropped from 18-20 mpg to 8-10. The shop is a dodge dealer and says everything is done right, my question is what could I look for that may have caused the gas mileage to drop so much right after a problem is fixed that should have made the mileage bad

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi:
That kind of change in mileage is serious. Look around for broken or disconnect vacuum hoses. Check the ignition timing and the O2 sensor. Also, you may want to take it to a nationally recognized auto parts store to have it scanned for codes. Most parts stores will do it for free.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

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Tuesday, October 21st, 2008 AT 11:22 AM

JEFFRINCK

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Joe,
did a scan and found nothing other then the timing is advanced 4 deg and they said the computer set that and didnt know what is optimal. Do you have any other suggestions? Thanks for helping in the first place.

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Thursday, October 30th, 2008 AT 8:27 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi:
off the top of my head, the only thing I can think of is a sensor. Are all vacuum line connect?

It may be time to go to a dealer to have it checked, Thery have the scann tools needed.

Let me know ig you have any have other questions.

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Thursday, October 30th, 2008 AT 8:42 AM