I am just wondering how bad oil can affect gas mileage? I bought new 17" rims for my 2003 cavalier sedan. I didn't really notice any gas problems in the week before i got my oil changed.. But after that it just seems to be droping too fast. I used to get aroun 300 but now i'm down to around 220 a tank. Does anyone have an suggestions? I bought the car with 42,000 miles and with the oil that the car place gave me... Then later i went back a week after i got my rims and get an oil change and i have noticed a big difference. From reading the forums the rims shouldn't affect my gas mileage noticable like that should they? They only other thing i've done in that period is get an oil change. Thanks for the help.
Also... I have been noticing some noises with my AC. Just letting you guys know everything that i've noticed.
I own a 2000 z24 and i get 550km easy per tank. I would check you air filter, fuel filter and spark plugs out. The type of oil you use has a bery minimal effect on fuel economy. The only thing i notice when i change my oil is that it seems to rev alot nicer. I get the same AC noise, it must be a problem with cavaliers. Aside from the odd noise its never given me any trouble so i dont think its anything to worry about unless it gets worse.
Maybe it has something to do with your tire size...
Large tire, more rolling force to make 'em move.....
I don't think it has anything to do with your oil.
Air filter, dragging brake, lead foot, spark plugs, plug wires....
Could if be tire size? I have 215/45/17 tires on it... Its not lead foot... I drive alot slower with the new rims. But can they affect your gas mileage that bad? If its not oil, then it has to be something with the tire or wheel. Thats all i have changed. How can you tell if you have a dragging break?
Also...larger diameter tires=larger circumference=fewer tire rotations per mile =ILLUSION of fewer miles per gallon. I noticed a 3% drop in MPG when I went up just one size on my ’00 Cavilier 2.4L.
Basically, you may be seeing a difference between INDICATED mpg and ACTUAL (or measured) MPG.
check your tire pressure...(ever ride a bike with no air in tires, thats what happens with your car..it takes more force to move it, and since you got new wheels, you never know!
Old Wolf wrote:Also...larger diameter tires=larger circumference=fewer tire rotations per mile =ILLUSION of fewer miles per gallon. I noticed a 3% drop in MPG when I went up just one size on my ’00 Cavilier 2.4L.
Basically, you may be seeing a difference between INDICATED mpg and ACTUAL (or measured) MPG.
Agreed, what you have noticed is an ododometer descripency due to your rims. Your speedometer will read lower than the actual speed now too.
You can't outrun the radio.
