We recently purchased a 03 Windstar and after filling it up 3 times noticed we were only getting 12-13 mpg. I called the local Ford dealership to see what they thought and told me that it might be it needed the fuel filter and spark plugs changed. So almost $400 later I am at 1/4 tank gone and 45 miles later showing 8.6 mpg. THey told me I could bring it in and they would run full diagnostics on it for another $116.00. The van is running fine, new tires, all fluids were fine when they checked, new breaks, etc. My friend has a similiar Windstar also an 03 and she is getting 19mpg. Our is a SEL hers a SE. She said when she fills it up it shows around 500 + miles till empy where as mine shows 375ish miles till empty. Any thoughts?

 

Are you going by actual miles traved per gallons of fuel or by the computer? The computer does an average calculation. I drive my 04 Freestar limited and can get anywhere from 4-27 MPG based on the computer readout. Using actual miles travels/gallons fuel will provide actual MPG. My actual MPG on the highway at 75-85 MPH averages 19-28 depending on the lay of the land/weather.

 

Alot factors in here as far as driving style and road contour, but first since it is a recent purchase make sure the oil is of correct viscosity. Sometimes depending on the history of the vehicle thick oil can be put in for many reasons. This might help cure leaks and regain lost power due to bad rings or whatnot but will also kill your AVE MPG. Other factors can be wheel bearings, parasitic things like alternator and A/C. Although this could be signs of a bigger problem I would check those before taking it in.