i have a 2002 escape v6... i am only getting about 8-10 mpg and i know it should be about 16mpg.is that a malfunction or can i fix it?

 

Check for codes, even if the check engine light is not illuminated and make certain the exhaust/cats are functioning properly. This is a start.

 

Unless you are driving 80 mph all the time, it is likely a malfunction. You may be able to fix it if you can figure out what is the cause. I would check 1)air filter, 2)fuel pressure 3)static fuel pressure & leakdown, 4)thermostat opening temp & operating temp. A few other sensors may affect mileage also, such as the coolant temp sensor and air temp sensor.
I don't know how you are calculating your mileage, but you have to have an accurate odometer to get accurate measurements, and you have to measure the fuel over several fills to average the consumption as the gauge is not accurate enough to use for mpg calculations.
tom

Added: Check the accuracy of your odometer by using the mile posts on the side of freeways. I had thought them to be placed properly, but I would use several mile markers and compare the odometer reading to the miles traveled markers.
tom

 

Even at 80 you should be getting double what you are.

On top of the above check plugs and coils, tire pressure, brakes (for dragging) and for vacuum leaks.

 

One of the above answers should solve your problem, but I have seen where a very slow leak in your gas tank or gas line could cause poor mileage obviously. Depending on how much you drive and the time between fill ups, I wouldn't rule this out... You say you would smell the gas, yea sometimes, but if the leak is small enough, you may not smell the gas or just overlook it.