2005 Escape - gas guzzler
 

I have a 2005 escape XLT AWD with 51K. It sucks through gas unbelievably. I drove approximately 10 miles and it used 1/4 tank of gas! I had a fuel cleaning system done thinking that may help; but it didn't at all. Tires are properly inflated. Also have the ABS light staying on steadily and the 4x4 light flickering on and off. Had it to a mechanic to tell me that it's the ABS sensor that needs replacement (200.00) but he couldn't help me with the gas mileage problem. Aside from finding a new mechanic with more knowledge; any idea on what could be causing the poor gas mileage?

You didn't say if you have a 4 or 6 cylinder engine.

Typically most Ford Escapes 6 cylinder engines with automatic transmissions will typically average 19 to 20 mpg overall. Slightly more on highway and slighlty less doing city driving.

The 4 cylinder will typically get a about 5 to 6 mpg more.

The poor mileage may not be poor at all. Do a mpg check with filling the tank etc. Or could actually be caused by the 4x4 light flickering. I wish the 03's had a 4x4 light, I never know if I am in 4 wheel drive or not.

Thank you for responding to my post. It's a 6 cylinder. I'll do as you suggested and fill it up to calculate the approximate mileage.

22.5 with my SILs V6 FrontWD 2005 model when I was using it for a few months.

Find someone who can pull codes for you. You may have easily fixed issues.

Your neighbors like your fuel. Get a locking gas cap and see if the mileage goes up. Last time through the high fuel price mess, my wife filled up, drove about 20 miles and was down to half a tank. She had parked in a shopping center parking lot, and that's the only place she stopped. The gas mileage never dropped like that again.
That said, I would check the fuel pressure in the rail supplying the injectors. If it is too high, it will use too much fuel no matter what the computer tells it to do. Certainly you have already checked the air filter and the tire pressure too.
tom

Yep, someone likes your gas. If your estimate is correct you are getting something on the order of 2.5 mpg. I don't think a modern car could use that much gas and not run like absolute crap.

Just a word of caution, Check your oil level and make sure it is not overfull. I think you would know by now but have heard of injectors and FPR acting up and using lots of fuel.