Is 16mpg Avg the Best I Can Do?

I would say yes for a manuals but I would think the auto would get better for that setup

 

I have basically the same setup as you, except long tubes, and I average 15 mpg with a "free" foot. This last tank I've been conservative just to see what the difference would be. Driving 65mph on highway, under 2k...I'm at 1/4 tank and have about 30 more miles logged than I typically would have. So, like everyone said...driving habit is the main factor.

 

The only thing it will do is lower your bank account.

 

+100

 

u wont have any cats, and depending on how well the 02 simulators work, its possible but I havent noticed a change.

every once in awhile Ill get a pending P0420 and P0430 code

 

Thanks I have a y-pipe already and banks 3" catback. Was gonna get the jba long tubes, vibrant ultra quiet resonator and URD 02 sims. Had a Airaid Intake and mpg was worse. Keeping stock box, k&n drop-in (switching to AFE) and I have a intake mani spacer.

 

I am relatively new to this forum and a very new owner of a 2012 Tacoma access cab TRD Sport Prerunner, but the comments regarding the OP buying another vehicle for his commute are ridiculous.

The Tacoma is designed to drive -- rack those miles up forget about keeping the truck pristine an unused. Buying a commuter car and buying a new tacoma does not seem to make any sense to me. Unless the Tacoma is just your "toy" to hit the creeks with on the weekends I think buying a commuter vehicle that gets 40mpg is a complete waste of money. If we are making valid suggestions -- just buy a motorcycle and get 60mpg and lower insurance costs, purchase costs, and quality of life goes through the roof with all the panties that will be throw at you during your daily commute.

Might I recommend - 2013 Husqvarna TE449 see pic enclosed

 

I'm driving the truck daily. They are great high mileage vehicles. I'll just have to be more conservative on the pedal.
Ordered a AFE DryFlow drop-in and JBA Longtubes from URD.
Gadget says seeing slight increase in mpgs with headers is easily possible and has been done.

 

Plus they are Longtubes which are badass and have proven gains

 

Bikes can make sense if the weather is good, you know how to ride and you don't have to carry much. Since the OP's major complaint is the cost of the fuel, buying a commuter car can make sense as well.

If gas costs $3.50 per gallon, and you're commuting 100 miles a day, you're using 6.25 gallons of gas a day at 16mpg or $21.88 per day. If you work for 22 days in a typical month, you're spending $481 per month.

At 40 mpg, you're using 2.5 gallons a day, spending $8.75 per day or $192.50. So if you can find a vehicle that cost you less than $288.50 per month (including payment and insurance cost), you'll save money.


That said, the OP should be able to get better than 16 with an automatic even with 285s. I get 16-17 highway with a manual, 285 tires, 3" lift and a Thule basket mounted on the roof. I keep my speed at 65. Like others have said, keep it below 2000 rpm and you should see good gains.

 

My 09 TRD Sport gets 18/19 on my commute. About 55/60 miles roundtrip a day. Only 5 miles or so of that is interstate.