I know this might sound like a stupid question, but lately my vs has not been getting the best fuel econemy. When i service my car i am not sure, and have been told that the ecotec motor does not to be tuned? is this correct? Its is running a bit sluggish and sometimes stalls at low revs fron reverse to neutral. My trans is allways serviced. Plugs and leads are all good, same as all filters. Should i take my car into a mechanic and get it tuned up? CHeers
Strictly speaking, the Ecotec V6 cannot be tuned as there is nothing that can be altered (as a normal operation). You cannot put new ignition points in, adjust the timing or adjust the tappets etc....all are automatic. But what you can do is ensure that everything is working as it was designed to work. Things that come to mind are cleaning the IAC valve and throttle body, running some injector cleaner thru the fuel system, checking all vacuum hoses for splits, ensure the air filter is clean etc etc. Others on this forum will add plenty more....and all are possible for you to do yourself.
As hako said, theres nothing to tune. To improve fuel economy you will simply need to do a home service. If that doesnt help, you replace sensors etc. Start by working out exactly what your fuel economy is. Fill up your tank, go driving and write down how many kms you clocked up. Use the kms and litres to work out your fuel usage for comparasion. Next do home service. How do you know that all filters are good? Just wanting to make sure its not second hand information that someone else is telling you. What about coolant and oil levels. Changing oil and oil filter can make a diff with fuel economy. Check error codes too. A faulty sensor will usually log an error code and may be a guide to solving your problem.
Yeah best advice has allready been given, Check your error codes, it's all you can really do with an ecotech. However ive heard oxy sensors can be failing and not show an error code, I replaced mine and its made a world of difference. Get your injectors serviced, I did, It cost $91 and its made me a VERY happy driver, check your fuel lines for any leaks, Clean the Throttle body and Idle air control (As stated above) and your intake manifold too, its easy on the ecotech and doesnt require you to pull the fuel rail off, just remove the engine cover, undo a few bolts, and it comes off, the gasket is a rubber re-usable one, but be gentle to it anyway. While cleaning the Inlet manifold I found the best way was to spray a rag with Carbi cleaner and wipe an area then re-wipe it with a clean rag. Try not to let too much crud fall down the inlet ports. I made a thread called "How economic can an ecotech get" I suggest you check it out.
