89 240 HORRIBLE gas mileage

hertfordnc · Post by **hertfordnc** » 30 Jan 2007, 12:45

The overdrive never worked in my previous volvo, (1990 240) and it got a steady 20 MPG. When I finally fixed the OD I expected a huge improvement but it only went up to about 22 mpg.

My 89 240 also has overdrive issues, (see other post) but it get 15-18 MPG when the overdrive is working.

It runs great and has lots more power than my previous volvo.

Any thoughts?

markvt · Post by **markvt** » 31 Jan 2007, 18:12

Are these mileage figures for city, highway or combined? If they are highway, they sound pretty low. In my limited opinion I would think if the mileage is low, but the car runs well, maybe it's not engine related. Brakes that are dragging possibly?
After a pretty good drive you can feel the wheels if steel and reach through and touch the rotors if you have open wheels. If something is dragging that badly, you should be able to feel one of the wheels or rotors that is warm/hot.
Anyway, just a suggestion. If these are combined mileage or mostly city...probably not all that terrible.
Mark

wojeepster · Post by **wojeepster** » 06 Feb 2007, 18:12

as O2 semsprs wear they tend to richen the mixture. If you have 100,000 mi or more I think you should replace oxygen sensor. Your car will run better and you will get better gas milage. Do you have a lead foot? If so the problem is not in the engine compartment.