gas mileage

[a5d]

I have confirmed the high end of the mileage reported by EPA/DOE in post No 12 above. My 2004 Pilot is averaging 21 mpg for 11 consecutive fill ups; however I am driving approximately 70% highway and I consider myself to be unlucky if I have to stop at a light in my "city" driving.

Update: 3/21/2006
324 miles 70 mph 23.39 mpg elevation change -900 ft (i.e. down hill for over 300 miles).
198 miles 70 mph + 28 miles city 22.64 mpg elevation change +120 ft (looked flat to me)
198 miles 70 mph 21.04 mpg elevation change -120 ft. (return trip)
175 miles 70 mph 21.57 mpg elevation change +640 ft (still 120 miles from start)

These individual results are inconsistent with stated conditions. The best news is that for 925 miles the average was 22.3 mpg.

About all you can say is that there are a lot of variables not being measured here. AC on or off? Should have been mostly off, but who knows with the automatic system? Headwind or tail wind? got best mileage against a head wind. Tank filled the same every time? Not likely. but any finagling still gives inconsitent results

[whulgan]

I almost bought a pilot, but did not sign the final paperwork today after we saw we were getting 10-11 mpg. There may be a break-in period but I can't take that chance. I do not see how the gas mileage can improve enough to get to the sticker rating.

[drcoffee]

YIKES! 12 mpg? I get 17-18 mpg in town and 22 mpg highway on my 2001 MDX. I feel for you. I have to admit, my wife who like the pep off the line will get 15-16 mpg but never 12.

Things to check: Tire pressure make it 35psi cold. This will help reduce friction. If it pulls left or right, check the alignment. If you use ethanol based fuel it's much less efficient than pure gasoline, to the tune of 70% as efficient. On a new vehicle the engine will be tighter but 12mpg. I doubt it. If that's the case really beat on it to break that engine in. You don't want it that tight for it's service life. I would also hold off on synthetic oil for the first 10,000 miles. It prevents the parts from wearing in properly. Then after 10k miles use only synthetic oil and it will make the parts move easier, reducing friction.

Post back as we'd like to know how you come along with this issue.

Cheers