Why the hell is my mileage so bad?

[99cougMD]

I used to be getting like 20 miles to the gallon which sucked, but I didn't worry too much.

After I got my alternator replaced, I switched the dash to the mile per gallon indicator. It started out at like 7 mpg, and as I drove it would slowly move up. Now it's at like 13 or 14 mpg and it's not going up anymore. I have a 99 mtx, and I like to think I drive it decently, no performance mods to speak of. Ideas?

[brapple]

doesn't that just take an average over time? so the longer you drive consistantly the higher it should read?


you would be much better off tracking gas milage by noting miles per tank and calculating your mpg after you fill the tank with gas.

[bensenvill]

ok ignore the dash for a bit. fill up your tank... drive around or whatever, and figure out how many miles you were able to get out of that tank.

[gamiller]

Also do scheduled maintenance including the air filter, spark plugs, plug wires, and fuel filter.

[skandalouz]

My 99' gets 17city/21hwy. 2 months ago i added Lucas fuel treatment, before that I was getting 13city/17hwy!