[paulbFL]

I just bought a '96 4x4 Tacoma with the 2.7L 4 cylinder engine. I took it on a long highway trip and seem to be getting no better than 17 mpg with it.

A friend of mine said I might be able to get better mileage from it if I install high performance plugs and air cleaner. Would you agree? Any additional ideas?

The truck also has custom wheels on it and the tires are extra-wide. I'm thinking that narrower tires that put less rubber on the road might help.

Any input appreciated.

Paul

 

[tug_slug]

*ouch* 17 mpg from 4 banger has to hurt.

Paul, going back to a stock size tire would definitely improve fuel consumption, you may not like the way it looks but you're mpg will without a doubt improve.

 

[mrrohloff]

I can pull 23-24 out of my 99 ext cab 4x4 4cyl. That is keeping the speed down to 70 or below. I have 31"x10.5 tires on mine so the smaller tires will for sure help. Also a deck plate mod apparently helps the mpg's.

 

[chipsndukes]

The oxygen sensor is a major factor in fuel economy. If it hasn't been replaced in the last 60K miles, I would replace it. If you don't know, I would replace it anyways. Compared to the cost of fuel over the long term it's cheap, it will pay for itself in a matter of months.

Chipsndukes

 

[4X4YOTA4ME]

I get 23-24 out of mine (HWY) 70-72 MPH

 

[ARB1977]

I gained about 3-4 mpg with my snugtop lid.

 

[tyrbo]

Are those tires larger in diameter than the stock, too? If so, it will be throwing your odometer off and make it seem like you are getting less mpg because you are actually traveling more miles than you have put into your calculations.