Hello,

I bought a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid about 2 months ago but my MPG varies from 24.2 to 27.2. I've been trying to figure out why my MPG varies so much. My best guess is that my battery/engine like cold weather. I'm thinking about trying:

- Replacing my spark plugs;
- Switching to Royal Purple oil, using about 1 quart less to reduce rotational inertia;
- Using a performance enhancing chip.

I was wondering what other people have tried?

Thanks.

Chris

 

Cold weather always pulls mileage down. Heater and defrost force the engine to run most if not all the time. EPA estimate is 29/27, so you're not far off. Driving style influences mpg more than anything (drive it like a grandma).

Of the 3 proposed actions, only the first has any potential benefit and should be done using the OEM spec plugs.

 

when i first bought my used escape 4wd it got 15 mpg - the biggest jumps in performance were new : coil packs, rear /battery air filter, motor mounts.... i also changed spark plugs, engine air filter, pulled the air scoop, cleaned the MAF, changed engine temp sensor, new shock/ spring combo , end links, 12 v bat,

now i get 31-33 on the fwy

 

As per S. Keiths comments, I can vouch for the fact that the heater/defrost tend to keep the engine on. I was not getting too much EV mode at low speeds until I turned off the fan. But at minus C temperatures here in southern Ontario, that won't last long. That said, every SUV out there will use more fuel during winter operations. The Hippo is still running at 7.X litres per 100km during this cold spell we are under.

 

2WD or AWD? It makes a significant difference.