Problem started about three weeks ago, got about 180k on the odometer. When I put gas in it the electronic readout on the speedometer shows that miles to zero is dropping extremely fast and is unusual. For example, it said 65 to zero when I left the gas station (put about 5 bucks of gas in it) and I drove to my friends about 12-15 miles away and now it say 20 to zero and the need gas light came on. Has only been like this for past three weeks.

Just recently changed spark plugs, oil filter, and oil.
Car is not really driving funny or making unusual noise (to my knowledge) and there doesn't appear to be a leak as when I leave it in my driveway there is no puddle or anything underneath.

Is this faulty fuel pump? Any solutions are appreciated, Thank You.

 

Do you live where they oxygenate the fuels for the winter? Some places start doing this around November. I have noticed that it impacts fuel economy but not greatly.

Have you calculated your miles / gal?

Things to check:
Proper plug gap, tire pressure, air filter, wheel alignment, heavier shoes
Stan

 

I live in the Baltimore MD area not sure if they oxygenate fuels never heard of that (I didn't have this problem last year around this time so I doubt it). Ill be sure to check and replace the things you mentioned. I'm going to buy an air filter and correct the tire pressure tomorrow. What pressure would you suggest for winter in Maryland?

I suppose I was due for a tire alignment and I might as well go do that pretty soon also. Thanks for your advice I'll post again after the weekend if I still am having problems.

 

Hey another Marylander. I am in Howard Co but grew up in Baltimore Co. Yes, I believe that they still oxygenate the gas here. As far as tire pressure, I usually go by the sticker in the inside of the fuel door for better economy (higher pressure). It handles good and better economy.

What brand and model plugs did you install? I had tried the Bosch Platinum 4 in my '02 and didn't like the way it ran and went back to the Volvo plugs.

Stan

 

LOL, I live in howard county, MD (Columbia) as well. What a small world. Yea with the plugs, Bosh plugs do not work, buy the OEM Platinum spark plugs. My engine kept misfiring when using bosh.

-Grant

 

The trip computer is absolutely unreliable when you are driving such sort distances so I wouldnt be alarmed at all just jet.

 

+1 on the trip computer. Mine was always 2-4 mpg off.