Computer Reflash - Better MPG
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Joined: Dec 2004
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From: Denver, CO
Computer Reflash - Better MPG
Well given gas prices recently I've been searching for ways to improve the Ford's MPG. After seeing several heated posts about the topic I decided to make a new post with what I've figured out recently. Here's my specs:
2004 F150 SuperCrew and 5.5 ft bed
5.4L engine with 18,000 miles
K&N Series 77 intake
3.73 LS Diff
Stock BFG's on 18 inch rims
All my mpg estimates are from the computer read out on the Lariat dashboard screen.
From day one the gas mileage was never all that great on the truck but it was still about par with my previous vehicle (Jeep Cheeroke - inline 6 4.0L), which justified the bad mpg in my mind. I was getting between 8-12 in city and 16-19 highway, depending on driving style and grade (I live in Colorado and going up a mountain pass was like dumping gas on the highway).
After doing some research on FTE I discovered that many 04 and 05 owners had seen a benefit from reflashing the truck's PCM (computer). I also heard that it was going to cost me $100 to get it reflashed so I held off. About two weeks ago I had the truck in for an oil change and told the tech I wanted the computer reflashed under warranty given poor gas mileage. Surprising they were fine with this - I did get a call from the tech later requesting to have the stock intake reinstalled to road test the problem to which I negated.
Well the reflash did improve the MPG. My city driving is now consistently in the 13-14 range and the highway has improved to 20-22. I should also mention that the engine is noticeably quieter at start up and has an overall better smoothness to it. I can't say that I've noticed a any real change in off the line acceleration or power.
I would encourage anyone with a truck from 04 or 05 to request a PCM reflash given the results I've seen and the way gas prices are moving. Laters.
2004 F150 SuperCrew and 5.5 ft bed
5.4L engine with 18,000 miles
K&N Series 77 intake
3.73 LS Diff
Stock BFG's on 18 inch rims
All my mpg estimates are from the computer read out on the Lariat dashboard screen.
From day one the gas mileage was never all that great on the truck but it was still about par with my previous vehicle (Jeep Cheeroke - inline 6 4.0L), which justified the bad mpg in my mind. I was getting between 8-12 in city and 16-19 highway, depending on driving style and grade (I live in Colorado and going up a mountain pass was like dumping gas on the highway).
After doing some research on FTE I discovered that many 04 and 05 owners had seen a benefit from reflashing the truck's PCM (computer). I also heard that it was going to cost me $100 to get it reflashed so I held off. About two weeks ago I had the truck in for an oil change and told the tech I wanted the computer reflashed under warranty given poor gas mileage. Surprising they were fine with this - I did get a call from the tech later requesting to have the stock intake reinstalled to road test the problem to which I negated.
Well the reflash did improve the MPG. My city driving is now consistently in the 13-14 range and the highway has improved to 20-22. I should also mention that the engine is noticeably quieter at start up and has an overall better smoothness to it. I can't say that I've noticed a any real change in off the line acceleration or power.
I would encourage anyone with a truck from 04 or 05 to request a PCM reflash given the results I've seen and the way gas prices are moving. Laters.
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grinderman
6.0L Power Stroke Diesel
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Sep 8, 2003 11:36 AM
