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How can I get better MPG?

Help, Advice and DIY Tutorials on Volvo's P80 platform cars -- Volvo's 1990s "bread and butter" cars -- powered by the ubiquitous and durable Volvo inline 5-cylinder engine.

1992 - 1997 850, including 850 R, 850 T-5R, 850 T-5, 850 GLT
1997 - 2000 S70, S70 AWD
1997 - 2000 V70, V70 AWD
1997 - 2000 V70-XC
1997 - 2004 C70

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WesleyW
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Joined: 31 March 2013
Year and Model: V70, 1998
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How can I get better MPG?

Post by WesleyW »

I have a 98 V70 Wagon and I used to average 24-26mpg in the city. Now it has dropped down to near 18mpg. I've replaced the spark plugs and changed the oil. What else can I do to get back up to 25 mpg? I'm about to replace the ABS module. Will that help?
Last edited by jblackburn on 17 Apr 2013, 20:57, edited 1 time in total.
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jblackburn
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Post by jblackburn »

Check engine light on? Does the exhaust smell like it's running rich (sulfur-like)?

Start off by checking for vacuum leaks and cleaning the mass airflow sensor. Change the filter. When was the last time it had a tune up (rotor, cap, wires?)

Most importantly: are you driving the same route that you used to? I have NEVER gotten 24-26 MPG city. That's more combined 30/70 city and highway for an S70.
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FlyingVolvo
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Post by FlyingVolvo »

The ABS module should have no effect on MPG. Have you diagnosed the module as faulty? If not, no reason to replace it. As Justin said, try all the little stuff first. Check your tire pressure (slightly higher side for more MPG).
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rspi
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Post by rspi »

Old o2 sensors will cause a drop in mileage.
'95 855 T-5R M, Panther - 22/28 mpg, 546,000 miles
'95 955 T-5R Yellow Wagon, Lemonade, 180,000 miles
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WesleyW
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Joined: 31 March 2013
Year and Model: V70, 1998
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Post by WesleyW »

O2 sensors are only about a year old. Check engine light is on. the codes off of my reader are P0455 EVAP Evaporation control system leak (Large), and P0410 secondary air injection system malfunction. The ABS module is faulty. I'm replacing that soon. (The ABS light and TRACS OFF light have been on and off for a while and sometimes when I press the brake petal it acts weird... like a vibration in it.) And yes I have been driving the same route.

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