Power setting and big tires

[twalker920]

What's more interesting (maybe) is that I went from 14.2 to 15.1 when I replaced my u-joints. I could actually tell the vehicle rolled smoother and definitely was quieter. I'm not surprised it improved, but I was surprised at the amount. I think part of the improvement was due to an increase in outside temps though.

Anything you fix/replace that makes a noticable difference in how the vehicle rolls should improve your mileage for sure.

But temperature-wise, cold air is better than warm air for performance and efficiency. It's VERY noticeable at 5500 feet here in Denver. I always get worse mileage in the summer (assuming my heavy right foot is the constant) at 90F vs winter at 30F. Hot air = less O2 per cubic foot intake = engine has to work harder to produce the same amount of power. Hence so many "cold air intake" kits.

I suppose that could be offset by warm temps making things roll and lubricate more easily, but that just gets back in to the "too many variables to tell" category.

Basically, we get crap mileage no matter what we do. Plus it's all relative to what you're used to and what you're willing to stomach.

[89Vette]

I agree about the cold vs warm air thing.

The problem with that blanket statement is cold-weather warm-up requires the MOST fuel. So, if your trips aren't long enough (like mine), warm air can prove to be more efficient because the motor has less warming up to do.

Great point(s) though!

[twalker920]

I know exactly how miserably cold Overland Park can be since my folks lived near there for 8 years before migrating back to Denver (dry cold is so much better than damp cold!). So I understand your reasoning, and my commute is also only 7 miles so I am in the same boat.

For warmup the absolute best thing to do is just start driving, but I know on cold days that sucks. And the one thing I miss from my Mazda 6S is the heated seats.

But this just highlights again how any surveys or blanket statements about mileage just have way too many variables to be meaningful.

[89Vette]

the one thing I miss from my Mazda 6S is the heated seats.

They make kits you can add to most any seat. In fact, someone created a thread showing a how-to on this subject -- after adding warmers to their VX seats.