My '98 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 is using 2 X's it's normal gas. No warning lights come on & it runs fine. Help!

Question

I changed the fuel and air filters, spark plugs & spark plug wires. The garage says the oxygen sensors are fine. Toyota can't analyse it because there are no dash warning lights on. They wondered if changing the timing belt might help but that's a lot of work and $ to do on spec. This July it's using twice as much fuel as in winter yet runs fine. Any suggestions as to what I can try next? Thanks

Answer 1

If no wet spots under the truck> Get a locking gas cap> Some 1 likes your gas more than you>

Answer 2

It sounds like you have a dirty mass airflow (MAF) sensor. It is located near the air filter housing, just before where the rubber hose to the throttle body attaches.  I can't remember for sure if it has 2 10mm bolts or 2 small phillips head screws. Unplug the sensor, remove the screws and look for 2 tiny wires with small bubble looking globs on them. These may look very crusted. If they are, spray them with brake cleaner and blow them off with air. It may take a few tries to get them clean. You will know because the wires will be bright again and the "globs" will be a little shiny. Once clean, reinstall the sensor, remove the positive battery terminal for about 5 minutes to clear the memory, reattach the terminal and see how it turns out. I suspect you will see a dramatic improvement.

Answer 3

actually.

i think your car has a recall on it;

my stepdad had the same car and he turned it in and he got $13,000 back for it.

you might want to check the toyota website or google this.

but. really. look into that. because they are recalling the cars due to rust and the body rusting away.

take the car to your dealer and ask about that.

Answer 4

PRI is partially correct.  Body rust has NOTHING to do with the campaign.  Frame rust is what it is regarding.   Toyota can do some testing, to determine if your fuel mix is in spec, if they told you there's nothing they can check they are not completely correct.  They may not be able to provide you with a smoking gun, but they should be able to provide you with some decent input as to some possibilities.

There are many factors that will affect your MPG.  Tire type and pressure, fuel type and grade, driving habits to name a few.

I do recommend getting your frame inspected however.  If there is rust perforation on the frame your truck could be unsafe to drive.