Where is my gas going ?

[prolaznik]

First post here, New to the forum

I have a 97 got the care almost two years ago from a junk yard  ($850) car runs great, never done anything to it.
The last month or so i am getting low gas milage 7-9 mpg in the city  You guys have any idea where to start looking?

[tigger]

Jan 21, 2014 23:11:49 GMT -6 prolaznik said:

...You guys have any idea where to start looking?

Do you have a scan tool or a parts store that can scan for codes?

[prolaznik]

I don't have any, but there are a few stores around here ill go check it out.

[tigger]

Is your CK ENG light on?

[prolaznik]

No it's not, the only thing i noticed i can smell gas around the car, maybe it's just in my head lol, i looked for leaks and nothing.

[RCA1186]

Check your air filter to start. We are on winter mix gas now, so you will see a noticeable difference in mileage there, plus more warming up time. But I would not expect to see that low of mileage from winter mix alone.

[aloha1286]

Hi, Aurora's need TLC I would consider tune up. Last time my check engine light came on and dealer said it was my O2 sensor. I said if I don't change it what would happen. He said poor mileage.

[emarkay]

If one smells gas on a fuel injected car, remember, that fuel is under pressure; think the opposite of a fire hose, this could be a really bad thing. Absolutely have that checked out for your safety!
Could be other things beyond that, from bad air filter to mechanical issues, to HO2 sensor, (check fuel trims), to contaminated fuel, dragging brakes, restricted exhaust, vacuum leaks, low oil, failed thermostat, etc. May have pending or active codes set or maybe not, if is not generally emissions related.

[human]

I'll second the tune-up. I changed out the coils, wires, and plugs last year and increased my fuel economy by about 5 mpg (13-18 in town and 21-26 hwy). I also changed out the air filter during all that, so that may have contributed as well.

Jan 30, 2014 11:53:06 GMT -6 aloha1286 said:

Hi, Aurora's need TLC I would consider tune up. Last time my check engine light came on and dealer said it was my O2 sensor. I said if I don't change it what would happen. He said poor mileage.

[lanceslambos]

ok tune ups aside, the '97 had a recall on the fuel lines. If you are still running a nylon fuel rail that's where I'd start! Seriously it could be leaking fuel right there and you'd smell it but likely never see or find it because it's evaporating so fast. Why? well because it's under pressure and already in a semi gaseous state and the engine is hot. Hey it's a free service at any dealership (and don't let them tell you otherwise) a leaky rail won't throw codes either, unless it was leaking so bad that the FPR couldn't even do its job and by then it would be obvious. If by chance it's not the fuel rail at least you'll have that piece of mind. If you haven't so far then by all means get them changed ASAP. I'll also add that if you threw a bottle of injector cleaner or fuel treatment in lately then that is your fuel mileage problem which means it's doing its job and your mileage will come back up after it works its way through and out the system. You see the increased MPG doesn't come while the stuff is working but rather the tanks afterwards.
keep us posted

[plato442]

Definitely check the fuel rail!! If that's not the problem, could also be a plugged cat.