How to get better gas mileage

[snglbny]

Hello Everyone,

I'm a new owner of a NBC - 2004 Aquarius Blue. Very nice, low miles (33K). I'm getting 18-19 mpg on my first 2 full tanks of gas. I was hoping for at least the low to mid range - 21 to 24 mpg. I drive about 60/40 city/highway.

What do you other NB drivers get for gas mileage? I originally wanted diesel, but I just couldn't find the right color, mileage and price. I ended up with the 2.0 L gas model.

Thanks for any insights!

Karen

[Fl_bug]

A few simple things to note

1) SLOW DOWN!!! Driving over 65 really lowers mpg
2) Look into things such as changing your air and fuel filters
3) Consider switching to synthetic oil. Not going to make a HUGE difference, but it will non the less.
4) Get a windscreen to cover your rear seats when the top is down. That whole area could be considered as drag technically if not in use.

A windscreen was up for sale a few days ago on here for $85. Maybe you should grab it while you still can!!

Btw, no TDI verts were made here in the USA. Only hardtops.

EDIT:
Link Added for the windblocker

[cep]

Wish I could offer hope. Neither of our Beetles gets good mileage. 2.0 gets less than 24 sometimes around 20; TDI gets less than 40.

[miffmole]

I have the 1.8T engine with my vert, and have averaged 30 mpg overall since I purchased it in 2007.

I've read where others have gotten as low as 15 mpg with the turbo. I have no idea why; I just hope mine stays like it is.

[Fl_bug]

I average 23-24mpg with my 1.8T 5MT. I've NEVER gone more than 312 miles on a tank of gas

[miffmole]

I once got 448 miles on a tank with my 1.8T, although I didn't mean to let it get that low. I was very thankful to make it to a gas station.

[DZLBUG]

Right foot mod.

[snglbny]

Originally Posted by Fl_bug

A few simple things to note

1) SLOW DOWN!!! Driving over 65 really lowers mpg
2) Look into things such as changing your air and fuel filters
3) Consider switching to synthetic oil. Not going to make a HUGE difference, but it will non the less.
4) Get a windscreen to cover your rear seats when the top is down. That whole area could be considered as drag technically if not in use.

Btw, no TDI verts were made here in the USA. Only hardtops.

EDIT:
Link Added for the windblocker

When I'm on highway, I usually drive 60-65, once in a while I go up to 70 when there are drivers on my "but". My city driving I try not to stop hard, start fast, if I can remember I put car into neutral when slowing down for stop. Just had the car change oil before I purchased so there is only about 1K on that oil/filter change. They put in 5W30 oil and I will assume synthetic, but not 100% sure. It is WINTER here, so the top has only been down while parked in my driveway. hehehe. I wasn't necessarily looking for vert, but when this one came along, I couldn't help myself.

Thanks for the notes. I'm going to check the air in the tires in the morning.

One question. On the 2.0L gas, does one use 89 Regular or higher octane? My first take was regular (19.5 mpg), 2nd tank 91 (18 mpg), just filled 3 tank with regular.

Karen

[Fl_bug]

Regular gas.

They most likely put in regular oil as thats what is the standard for that engine. Synthetic for you will be an upgrade.

Tire pressure is another good one! I need to check mine!

[Smileybug]

I use 87 octane in my 2.0. I usually get mid 20's around town and upper 20's mixed driving (upwards of 30 on highway...used to get over 30 but speed limits around here are 70 so I often go 75 ).

Do you have a manual or auto? You have low mileage but a lot of time on the car. Maybe a tune up? Spark plugs, fuel filter. Definitely make sure your tire pressure is good.

[noR]

Drive better, think further ahead.

It's better to slow from 50mph to 30mph 400ft before the light, and then back up to 50 after it's changed. Than it is to cruise at 50 and come to a stop and then have to accelerate all over again.

[fohveh]

My 2002 1.8t has been getting 30-32mpg since I bought it new. Winter it drops to about 27-29mpg, I think its because of the wind here during the winter. Its very strong and the Beetle has to fight it with its unique shape so mileage suffers. When the winds are slower in the warm months the mileage goes back up.