MPG Mods

stay out of the gas is for sure the best method to better mileage

 

I haven't changed my driving habits since removing the secondary filter and I'm currently getting 1.5mpg better then when it was still in. I call shenanigans on that article sir.

 

After two months still only getting 17 mpg. I drive very moderatly. I will question the dealer when going in for first oil change and check up. Still not happy.

 

Hey guys hows it going, I'm new to the forum and I would appreciate some tacoma veterans' advice. On the topic of mpg mods, I hope I came to the right place - I am a student looking on leasing a tacoma (4 cyl manual). I was looking at the base model 4x2 access because of its amazing fuel efficiency, however, with the upped version of it; the 4x4 with larger wheels - IF I were to keep it in 2wd mode for most of the time would I be seeing similiar mpg ratings as the base model 4x2 access cab? (I know the wheels make a slight difference in mileage, I just find it a pity to have the base model with such small wheels... I mean its a truck after all)

I would really appreciate some help with this if anyone is familiar with it!
Cheers, and hopefully I'll be looking into one very soon!

 

I have the base Access Cab with the "golf cart" tires and wheels. Honestly after 3 years it only bothers other people. I think that they are one reason the truck goes so well in the snow with no LSD or other tricks. We have had two rough winters here in KC the last two years, and the Taco has not had a problem in 6 to 12 " snowstorms. Those skinny tires just dig in and go.

When the excellent Destination LE's wear out, 40K on them now and still plenty of tread left. I will most likely get 16" alloys when I need new tires, and those tires will be some of the new Low Rolling Resistance models, which should help to keep MPG's up with the larger tires and wheels. The reason the stock wheel and tire combo gets good mileage is the tires only weigh 25 lb each. I don't know what the wheels weigh but Aftermarket 16" alloys average about 20 lbs, which I'm guessing is probably a bit less than the stock steel wheels. But the most important factor in your MPG's is your right foot. I have found that coasting up to traffic light that change to red really helps. Also pay attention to traffic light patterns and learn their tendencies.

 

They make a prerunner model exactly for this. Its a 2wd version, but the same ride height and suspension as 4x4. 4x4 introduced a transfer case and you typically get about 10-15% less mpg due to added weight and driveline loss even in 2wd mode. Prerunner does not have the transfer case and weight so you can get better mileage and still have the 4x4 look with bigger tires. It will be less mileage then the base 2wd with cart tires tough.

 

hang in there i didnt see a break in my gas mileage till about 15k miles it takes a while for these motors to break in

 

To clarify, a 2009 study by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that replacing a clogged air filter did not improve fuel economy in three newer vehicles that had fuel-injected, computer-controlled gasoline engines. But replacing a clogged air filter improved gas mileage in an older car that had a carbureted engine.

 

Thats interesting. Im sure the actual full intake will give you better mpg (slightly). The rubber garbage tubes have a VERY high friction loss from air compaired to hard plastic or metal, so Im sure it would help. Again though, depends on the motor/setup/vehicle

 

I drive a 2008

 

Based on computerized fuel injection theory, I believe this to be true. I don't believe modified intakes or exhaust will improve mileage. I've fooled around with this crap on other vehicles, and have never seen an increase in mileage. There is very little performance increase from intakes, or cat back exhaust on modern engines either. Headers can give noticeable power gains, but on some engines these gains can be at higher rpm. If you have money to spend, and want to make these type mods, have at it. If you think you will get a boost in fuel efficiency, or big gains in power, save your money for something else...

 

1.5mpg more for free is pretty awesome i think the 2 minute mod was worth it lol

 

Apparently, you'e one of the lucky ones. There's always an exception, but the fact is with modern, computerized, fuel injected motors, there's really no MPH gained by throwing money at air intakes and cat-back exhaust systems. You may get marginally better performance, but MPG should stay about the same.

 

I threw FREE at my truck bc it cost $0 to take a pointless air filter out

 

Good for you! Removing the secondary air filter has had a positive impact on MPG. www.fueleconomy.gov will be contacting you on your amazing discovery.

 

Will I get a trophy?!

 

Maybe a visit from the EPA

 

Of all the test results out there there is no improvement over a stock air filter as far a flow rate and most of the tests show that the stock filter does a far better job of filtering. You are only going to get as much air into an engine that can go by the throttle body and the filter area is far bigger. Interestingly enough removing the air filter all together made no difference in performance or fuel economy in the tests. I would stay away from any oiled air filter they have a tendency to kill hot film maf sensors.

 

on a long trip this weekend mostly interstate going 65 i got 26.23 MPG i was stoked

 

lehhhhgo