My Subaru’s MPG Doesn’t Add Up
Q. I am the relatively happy owner of a 2013 Subaru Impreza 5-door with two questions. The vehicle was purchased late in December 2012 and now has 29,500 miles and average 32.7 miles per gallon. I track my MPG with each fill up and compare the trip meters with my mathematical calculations and find that without exception each tank fill calculates 5-7 MPG less than the trip meters. I’ve asked the dealer about this and each time I inquire I get the same answer: warming up the car, idling in traffic is what causes the difference in mileage numbers Do you have an answer for this disparity in the MPG numbers?
My other question is that I use snows in the winter and when the dealer put on the snows this past week, I was told the original tires were toast with only 24,000 miles on them. Is that typical? Any suggestions on the best low profile tire to purchase?
A. The mileage difference between the electronic read-out and the actual numbers in my experience don’t always line up. In some cars the numbers are more optimistic than others. The reasons can be attributed to changes in gasoline (winter verses summer fuel), evaporation, fuel brand and even how plastic gas tanks can expand and contract. I still calculate miles per gallon the old fashioned way-divide the miles driven by the gallons used.
Regarding tires it is not unusual to see some original equipment tires wear out a bit early. When shopping for new tires a little research on internet forums is a good idea as well as dealing with a professional tire store.
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com