2004 PT Cruiser GT

[Eric1987]

Hi I have a friend who has a 2004 Turbo PT Cruiser. He says its getting HORRIBLE gas mileage. Like 10mpg. He said the dealer recommended changing the fuel filter. Is that right? And how hard is it to do exactly? I did it on my camaro which was a sinch. I have limited car knowledge.

[crusierdad76]

Well The fuel filter is a good place to start Id say more in the way of plugs and wires and the air filter

[Eric1987]

He has had the plugs and wires changed recently. Air filter looks pretty clean. Can anyone gimme a how to to install the fuel filter?

[CREWZIN]

Eric,

The fuel filter is attached to the fuel pump and the gas tank has to be dropped or at least taken half way down to get to it. Most of us go for a lifetime (100,000+ miles) before even thinking about changing it. Unless you friend knows for certain that he's come into contact with some bad gas that might had clogged the filter, I don't think that's his problem.

A good tune-up, inflating the tires to a couple pounds above what's recommend and a change of habit on the way he drives with a light foot on the accelerator are the best ways to improve mileage.

[Eric1987]

So pretty much a complete tune up? He says its running a bit rough.

[crusierdad76]

when you say complete tune up If the plugs and wires are already done and the air filter is good there isnt a lot left to tune up Like Crewzin said a little more air in the tires try to keep it at a steady RMP level probably under 2000 no quick jack rabbit starts
Guess you could do a oil change but that isnt going to help the MPG's I dont get real good MPG's but i do get close to 22 I have to think if he is getting 10 there has to be something that is wrong big time

One more thing to think about IF the fuel filter is clogged it wont really get bad millage it will be starved for fuel and run like crap probably bucking and spitting and for sure pulling down on hills

maybe cleaning the air intake running some lucus fuel additive through it maybe a couple bottles at this point any thing should help

[CREWZIN]

Originally Posted by Eric1987

So pretty much a complete tune up? He says its running a bit rough.

What Crusierdad76 said: plugs, wires and air filter. Then tell him to drive normal not "like he stole it".

Don't forget to pump up the tires.

[Hooligan]

I wonder what gap was used on the plugs? Were performance wires used. Just drove from FL to Myrtle Beach 500+ miles, at one point we got 28 mpg on Highway 17, 45-60 mph was the speed limit, was very happy with that on the 2008 with 3,100 miles. If you check my mods you'll see I have platinum plugs (not recommended for turbo) and performance wires at 400 miles.

[Mean Green]

The dealer is full of poop and looking to make money and still not fix it. Take it to an independent shop for a second opinion. Nothing has been said of driving habits and if it is totally city driving which along with poor driving habits could easily give him 10-12 mpg with the automatic tranny.