I have a 2005 Highlander that doesn't quite produce the mileage that the EPA and dealership sites suggest. I've tried using a higher octane fuel and not seen returns. Any tips on improving it?

I had a 2000 4Runner previously and did the airbox/deckplate mod and an Amsoil air filter. I got a little better mileage, but nothing crazy impressive. Anybody tried it on a highlander? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

Have you done a tune-up yet? Spark plugs, air-filter, clean your throttle body, MAF sensor and check your tire pressure as well. Hope this helps.

 

buy a prius

 

A lot of the time, bad fuel economy is due to poor driving habits, like speeding or accelerating when going down hills, to name a couple. Try changing them up and see what you get. What kind of mileage are you getting now? Is it all highway or all city? The fuel economy that the EPA states brand new is based off a certain percentage of highway and city driving. I can't remember the percentages right now, though.

For those wondering, this is what the 2005 Highlander should get: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymod...ghlander.shtml

I wouldn't suggest that even to my worst enemy. Buying a Prius should be the last resort

 

Here's some tips...

http://partsblog.olathetoyota.com/11...n-your-toyota/

I also heard about driving with your shoes off the exact the pressure you need to move forward...hmm...also, drafting (I don't recommend that lol), putting it into neutral on hills, coasting a lot etc. Just search "advanced hypermiling" and you'll find tons of information.

 

Check your tire pressures. I run mine higher than the suggestions in the door jam. But keep it under the max on the tire sidewall.

But yeah, driving style is the thing that'll make the most difference. Don't focus on the car in front of you, look through him and try to reduce input changes to the throttle.

Rich

 

run some fuel injector cleaner, clean your throttle body out, change the air filter, pull battery cable to reset ECU, then try again with better driving habits.

 

Being gentle on the gas and brake pedal is the cheapest and effective way to have better fuel economy.