Q&A with David Harrison - July 10, 2008
Q: With gas prices skyrocketing, I am unsure of what octane gas I am to run in my truck. I naturally want to spend the least amount of money, but don’t want to do anything detrimental to my vehicle. Can you help me decide?
Kevin in Milton
A: The best way to confirm the recommended octane fuel for your truck is to consult your owner’s manual. However, nearly all but a few high-performance vehicles can run regular 87 octane gasoline. As long as your truck has not been modified in any way, you should be able to run 87 octane – which will likely be your manufacturer’s recommended specification for gas as stated in the vehicle owner’s manual.
Q: My car does not seem to be running as well as it used to. I’ve had it for a little over two years, and have 45,000 miles on it. It doesn’t seem to accelerate as quickly or as smoothly as it did when new. I have also noticed a drop-off in fuel economy. Can you help?
A: With your car starting to get up there in mileage, it is important to have completed regularly scheduled maintenance at this point in your car’s life. First and foremost, make sure that you get your oil changed every 3,000 miles if using conventional oil, or every 7,500 miles if using synthetic oil.
At this mileage, you will want to change your air filter, if this has not yet been done. A clogged air filter will greatly restrict your engine’s performance and fuel economy. The dirtier the air filter, the harder it is for your engine to breathe. Think of trying to breathe through a drinking straw. Not easy, is it? This is how your car feels with a clogged air filter.
Additionally, spark plug replacement is encouraged at this time, depending on your make and model vehicle. As a rule, spark plugs are to be changed every 30,000 miles, but newer vehicles do have longer replacement intervals. Check your owner’s manual before shelling out the cash for a spark plug replacement.
The fuel filter is also a source of your vehicle’s maladies. Like the air filter, the fuel filter becomes clogged over time. Changing your filter not only will restore your vehicle’s pep, but will come with the wonderful added bonus of better fuel economy.
Finally, take a look at getting an air intake system cleaning for your vehicle. A dirty throttle (the throttle is an essential part of your vehicle’s air intake system) will also cause your issues. A local shop can provide you with this service.