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View Full Version : 2002 Honda Accord low MPG


wantmorMPG
03-17-2011, 11:55 PM
I have a 2002 Honda Accord 4 cyl AT, I'm getting about 25-26 mpg with mixed driving on highway and local. I have 4 different tires on my car right now, and I am getting new bridgestone turanza serenity tires all around. I read on the reviews that these tires will decrease my mileage by about 2-3 mpg. I'm sure many of you are thinking I'm an idiot for even considering these tires, but with my current money situation, these are the best deal for me (considering alleged longevity and cost). If anyone has any advice on how I can get my MPGs to atleast 30 please let me know. Thanks.

Damionk
03-18-2011, 12:17 AM
30 MPG is definitely doable. I have a 96 Accord that I regularly get 35+ in. (Having some car issues and with winter gas it's keeping me from hitting 40.) Just keep those tires pressed up to sidewall max and they will be fine. As for tips check out the "Beating the EPA" article. You can find it here: http://www.cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1510
Just remember to be patient and take your time. Ask any and all questions you have.

MaxxMPG
03-18-2011, 12:53 AM
If you haven't picked up the new Serenity tires yet, consider the Goodyear FuelMax tires instead. On Tire Rack, the size needed for your Accord is listed at 90 each for the Fuel Max vs 101 each for the Serenity. Treadwear ratings are 580 vs 740, but these numbers can't be compared among manufacturers (they aren't standardized), and you will save quite a bit of fuel with the Fuel Max tires if you let the car glide when it's practical to do so.

PaleMelanesian
03-18-2011, 09:02 AM
That mileage is surprisingly low.

Is the engine in good shape?
How are the brakes? Are any of them dragging? You can jack up each corner and spin the wheel (in neutral) to find out. The should spin freely.

wantmorMPG
03-21-2011, 10:23 PM
I have already ordered the Turanza Serenity tires from Costco, they should be in in a day or 2. As far as the condition of the car, as far as I know its in good working condition, I will ask them to check if the wheels spin freely when they put the new tires on at Costco. I got a new air filter incase if that might help. I just put it in, so I dont know if it has mad a big difference yet or not. The old filter was kind of dirty so I am optimistic that it will make a difference. I've changed my driving habits somewhat, I tend to coast more and I don't brake or accelerate hard (I try to keep the revs under 3000 while accelerating). Some stuff I've read in the past suggest turning the car off if I think I am going to be stopped for more than 7 seconds, but I'm just worried that if I do that too much it may kill my starter. I don't have any problems with it right now, and I would like to keep it that way. Also, I read about putting the car in neutral and turning the engine off. I read that it should only be done if the car is "flat tow-able", and I don't know if my 2002 Accord SE is, so I haven't done that either. If anyone knows whether or not my car is flat tow-able that would be a huge help. If anyone else has any more advice for me it would be much appreciated too.

Thanks, to you guys for all the advice so far, I really appreciate your help.

Damionk
03-21-2011, 10:48 PM
I would hold off on FASing (N with engine off) for now it is considered an advanced technique. Work on what you are doing now before adding anything else. Keep the RPMs under 2500. You may have to do what is called a fake shift. Basically what it is is lifting off the pedal a little then reapplying to get the car to shift. I get my Accord to shift at about 10 MPH, 20-23 MPH (she can be picky about this one), 30 MPH, and 40. As far as turning the engine off when stopped I usually just do it when I am getting ready to pull into a parking spot or stopped at the railroad tracks near my house for a train. I figure the keying off I do as I park doesn't put any extra wear on the starter since I would be turning it off anyways. Just remember to put the car in N first.

PaleMelanesian
03-22-2011, 08:57 AM
I'd have to say the one biggest thing is looking far ahead as you drive. Give yourself space to react to any event without brakes. Start coasting early so you don't have to brake for a turn. Adjust your speed so you reach the light when it's green - even 5 mph is much better than a stop.

moneysaver
03-25-2011, 09:27 PM
In addition to what others have said already, keep your speed during highway driving below or @ max 65 (depending on what the PSL is), anticipate driving conditions, and try to time the lights, so you minimize the breaking and maintain momentum. Take extra weight out of the car, and try to fill up in early morning/ or night when temps are cooler, so you get more gas for your money...

Mendel Leisk
03-26-2011, 10:38 AM
We had a 91 Accord, purchased new and kept for about 15 years, and the mileage just kept deteriorating. I never sorted out why, just kept shovelling gas into it, but was speculating it might be the Oxygen sensor getting fouled. Might be something to get checked. I think a new sensor is pretty pricey though.

Also, the front wheels would feel pretty hot after an extended drive: maybe due to brakes not releasing properly: try a complete brake fluid flush and brake re-build?



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