Chart 15-Poor Fuel Economy

1992 Ford Tempo LX, 2.3 X, StandardSECTION Chart 15-Poor Fuel Economy
NOTE: Fuel consumption increases drastically in city driving, short-run operation, stop-and-go driving, trailer towing, extended winter warm-up periods, etc. Determine if these are factors are the cause of poor fuel mileage before proceeding with diagnostic procedure.
DIAGNOSTIC CHART 15-POOR FUEL ECONOMY

System & Component(s) Reference
FUEL/THROTTLE BODY
  • Fuel Pressure Regulator
  • Fuel Return Line Blocked
Perform a visual inspection. See FUEL SYSTEMS in I - SYS/COMP TESTS article.
AIR INTAKE SYSTEM
  • Air Cleaner Duct & Element
See I - SYS/COMP TESTS article.
IGNITION
  • Scope Engine For: Spark Plugs, Wires, Coil, etc.
  • Ignition Timing
See IGNITIONS SYSTEMS in I - SYS/ COMP TESTS article.
EEC
  • EEC-IV Quick Test
See TESTS W/CODES article.
COOLING
  • Thermostat
Check cooling system.
FACTORS EXTERNAL TO THE ENGINE
  • Tire Pressure
  • Clutch Operation
  • Converter Clutch Override
  • Automatic Transmission Shift Pattern and Fluid Level
  • Brake Drag
  • Exhaust System
  • Speedometer/Odometer Gear Ratio
  • Axle Ration
  • Vehicle Load
  • Road and Weather Conditions
  • Aftermarket Add Ons
Perform a manual & visual inspection.
BASE TRANSMISSION (A/T WITH OVERDRIVE)
  • Converter Clutch Control Components
  • Modulated Converter Clutch Control Solenoid
See TESTS W/CODES article.
EGR
  • Valve Operation
See I - SYS/COMP TESTS article.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.