98 S10 with bad gas mileage

Jan 12, 2007 3 Replies

I recently purchased this truck. It is a 5speed 2.2l 4cylinder with 145K miles. I bought it in the hopes of saving some gas instead of driving my k2500 around all the time. I've had it about 3 months now and have been consistently getting 13 - 15 mpg! I had a '94 a few years back with the same engine/trans configuration and slightly less miles (about 125k) and easily got 20 - 25mpg in town, close to 30 highway. What might be causing this? I'm not real handy when it comes to automotives (mostly cause I've never tried) but I can do some stuff. I'm planning on changing the spark plugs and probably the fuel filter & air filter this weekend. Are there any other things that I can look at and either fix myself or bring to a mechanic to have them look at?


How about checking the rest of the fluid levels, likee in the tranny and rear end. Get the wheels off the ground and see if they turn easily==you may have brakes dragging or a damaged bearing. Could be the previous owner used a very heavy oil to reduce its consumption. You've got the right idea--replace the common easy stuff and then go looking.

Hi Jimmy I have a '02 S-10 set up like yours...extended cab and 2wd. Sometimes I get over 31mpg. I sure like it and it will haul a trailer and a load ok also. I wouldn't get rid of mine for anything. Good luck finding the problem. Pete in MS

My 96 truck like yours averages 26.4, mostly highway but some in town, usally with a load. Get yours checked out and tuned up. TL

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