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MPG hit for out of alignment?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Fuel Economy' started by problemchild, Apr 28, 2008.

  1. problemchild

    problemchild New Member

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    I tried doing a search but 600 pages come up for mpg. My prius has been out of alignment from the factory. I just have not had time to bring it back in. Whats the hit on the mpg for this?
     
    #1 problemchild, Apr 28, 2008
  2. bwilson4web

    bwilson4web BMW i3 and Model 3

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    There is no easy answer since it is a function of which type, toe or camber, and how much. Also, tire pressure can mitigate some of the problem.

    I would recommend getting one of those IR temperature gauges and measuring the tire temperature across the treads after driving say 15 minutes at highway speeds. You'll have to stop quickly to take the measurements since they cool off quickly.

    GOOD LUCK!
    Bob Wilson
     
    #2 bwilson4web, Apr 28, 2008
  3. problemchild

    problemchild New Member

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    Ummmm

    I think I will just go get it aligned.

    Anyone know what kind of hit for an alignment issue? 3-5 aprox?
     
    #3 problemchild, Apr 28, 2008
  4. lefat1

    lefat1 Fat Member

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    ummmmm, good idea, get it aligned, dont worry about mileage hit, worry more about hit from premature tire replacement and possible other suspension wear
     
    #4 lefat1, Apr 28, 2008
  5. problemchild

    problemchild New Member

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    All great topics OTHER then what I asked for.

    Never mind this question seems to be too difficult to answer.
     
    #5 problemchild, Apr 29, 2008
  6. efusco

    efusco Moderator Emeritus
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    Geez man, the first answer in the thread was the best you can expect. It depends upon any number of factors, none of which you've supplied.

    If you want random numbers just so you can chew on them then I'll give you some...more than 1mpg and less than 10mpg.

    Depends upon severity, depends upon speed, depends upon your base mpg, depends upon temp, depends upon type of alignment issue. Who cares what the exact number is for say 40mph at steady speed...whatever it is it's more important to have it corrected for handling, for tire wear and to improve your FE even if the number isn't great.
     
    #6 efusco, Apr 29, 2008
  7. Jiipa

    Jiipa MGySgt USMC (Ret)

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    I agree with efusco, Bob gave you the answer to your question.

    Why don't you just get the alignment done and let us know how much your mpg improves.
     
    #7 Jiipa, Apr 29, 2008
  8. patsparks

    patsparks An Aussie perspective

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    Get the wheel alignment then after you use a few tanks you can let us know.
     
    #8 patsparks, Apr 29, 2008
  9. N3FOL

    N3FOL Member

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    Your manufacturer's warranty including alignment is good for a year. Go to your dealer at the earliest possible time to have your alignment checked...the diagnosis should not cost you anything as well as if any adjustment is needed. Good Luck.
     
    #9 N3FOL, Apr 29, 2008
  10. bwilson4web

    bwilson4web BMW i3 and Model 3

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    Hummmmm, I have been in deep thought about your question and after billions of nanoseconds have the answer. But you won't like it:

    42

    Bob Wilson

    ps. In memory of Douglas Adams
     
    #10 bwilson4web, Apr 29, 2008
  11. Sufferin' Prius Envy

    Sufferin' Prius Envy Platinum Member

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    Let me give a go at it . . .

    [​IMG]

    . . . Yep, 42 is as good an answer as any other. ;)
     
    #11 Sufferin' Prius Envy, Apr 29, 2008
  12. sdmcgale

    sdmcgale Junior Member

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    The rear toe was out on my '05 Prius, .34 on each side (spec is .02-.28 deg). The dealer had no fix for it, said to take it to an alignment shop. Alignment shop installed a shim kit. Mileage increased about 2mpg, from about 53 to 55mpg.

    The car also feels a lot more planted on the road now.
     
    #12 sdmcgale, May 23, 2008
  13. sdmcgale

    sdmcgale Junior Member

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    P.S. WRT 42, it was Douglas Adams.
     
    #13 sdmcgale, May 23, 2008
  14. Ichiro

    Ichiro Member

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    #14 Ichiro, Jun 2, 2008
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