Hello All,
Last summer I bought my '05 FEH 4WD. I just discovered this website recently and decided to join. After readin gsome of the other posts on here, I am a little envious since it sounds like everyone is getting better milage than I am getting.

Thanks,
Rich

Hey Rich... Welcome. You can only get better by reading web sites like GH.

Also try http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/hybrid_ford_escape/

if you have not done so already.

I feel I'm a "seasoned" Escape Hybrid driver, and I'm getting about 37 MPG to 40 MPG on a regular basis... in a 2WD model... now that I 'think' I know what I am doing!

I started out at about 33 MPG, so if I can improve about 5 MPG with simple tricks, you can too! What have you tried so far?

I must say, putting 44psi in all 4 tires is the easiest way to get better mileage.
There are about 10 things you can do to help in a cumulative way.

Tell me more about your situation, and I'll try to help. You can send me a private message if you wish not to post.

Good Luck!
-John

I have inflated my tires to 40 psi. I also have my oil changed and tires rotated every 5,000 miles. I have also tried the different tips found on the interent (pulse/coast driving where permitted). Whenever I fill the tank, I reset the trip odometer and reset the fuel economy reading on my Nav/radio. While driving home, I try to drive through the city instead of taking the freeway. By doing this, I can generally get the mpgs up to around 52 mpg. However, as soon as I have to go to work and drive on the freeway, it drops down to 30 mpg. Whenever I get stuck in traffic, I can get it to increase up to 32 mpg. But I haven't been able to get it above 32.
Also, I read tonight about using the "L" gear selection on GH's tips. Will this really help? Any thoughts will be appreciated. Also I have checked on the Yahoo groups you mentioned (although I haven't checked recently.)

Thanks,
Rich

Hello and welcome to GH, and the FEH.

Looks like you're well on your way to utilizing your new hybrid technologies. As noted, the difference between N, D, and L, is software, so it's really a matter of finding what works best for you. During the summer, I used L extensively, which meant I didn't have to use the double tap, and spent more time coasting, both of which help your MPGs. In the cold, or in certain areas (mostly where the terrain is very hilly), most people don't see much of an advantage to using L.

If you haven't, read the FAQ here.

No matter what you do, you should enjoy!

First 4WD Hypermiler

Have you read the FEH FAQ?

Live in Michigan? Let it be known in Michigan Roll Call

Read My Automotive Blog at Rich Rambles

Welcome aboard! Keep reading and you'll do fine. You have an advantage in that your vehicle is all broken in.

Where in MD are you located? I grew up in Silver Spring. How's the snow there?

Support the Troops - Drive a Hybrid!

I live in Frederick and commute to Silver Spring. At the present time, the snow is mostly gone. Sorry for the delay, but I am also going to school full time trying to earn my Master's degree (will finish in the end of May - whew!!!)

Rich