Aspire With Lousy Gas Mileage

[lovemyfesty]

I have a 96 Aspire, automatic with A/C. Getting only about 24 MPG. Tires are inflated; air cleaner OK. Any suggestions on how to get better mileage? Thanks.

[MeeMo]

First thing I am going to replace on my 92 Festy is the O2 sensor, just a thought. I am getting that code indication and I know from my other vehicles that will make a difference if it is bad. I believe you have two, one before and one past the cat, someone please correct me if I am wrong. And maybe see if there are any stored codes for clues?

[FestYboy]

my G/F has the same thing; solution: remove sparkplugs and inject SeaFoam, replace plugs and let sit overnight (at least 8 hrs). Blow the stuff out and reinsert the plugs. run car normaly. milage will improve within a tank. also I've found that STP fuel treatment bumps the milage by 3-4 MPG, especially when used with NON-ethanol fuel.

[jglutz]

How is the performance. Does every thing seem OK except the milage?

[GenevaDirt]

my G/F has the same thing; solution: remove sparkplugs and inject SeaFoam, replace plugs and let sit overnight (at least 8 hrs). Blow the stuff out and reinsert the plugs. run car normaly. milage will improve within a tank. also I've found that STP fuel treatment bumps the milage by 3-4 MPG, especially when used with NON-ethanol fuel.

How much is the STP? If you are talking about putting in your Festy....if you are getting 40 or close.....if it cost more then a gallon of gas then you are wasting your money.If it is around the same price then you are breaking even......I wouldn't bother unless it helps it run better.

If you are talking about the aspire....how big are the tanks on those?

[getnpsi]

aspire tanks and festiva tanks i read were the same.

[FestYboy]

i can get a 3 pack of STP for $3, so it's worth it for me

[WmWatt]

If the engine is running that bad it should not pass government emissions inspection?

I'd jack up each wheel and check that they are turning freely.
It could be something mechanical like grabbing brakes (how's the steering?) or worn bearings (any noise?).

Does the hand brake release properly? The linkage outside the back wheels can get rusty and stick.

[lovemyfesty]

Everything else is ok. Just bad mileage.

[jglutz]

^^Bad t'stat....stuck open...the engine never reaches proper operaing temp.

[FestYboy]

^^ a common issue for sure, but that didnt fix the milage on my G/Fs aspire. i'm betting on sticking rings, check your compression (engine at opperating temp)