Rob,
I recently purchased a 2011 Acura MDX. It currently has about 2000 km on the odometer. The mileage since we purchased the vehicle is appalling (21.5 l/100 km).
When I contacted the dealership, they suggested that the mileage I was getting was normal. This vehicle has almost exactly the same mileage rating from Transport Canada as the 2003 Honda Odyssey that it replaced and is being driven by the same person.
While I understand that new vehicles may get worse mileage than those that have been "broken in", how long does this typically take? Is there anything that I should get the dealership to check?
Thank you for your assistance, Jonathan
Jonathan, the MDX is actually noted for having "Jekyll & Hyde" fuel economy numbers. To qualify, for its size, the MDX gets fairly respectable fuel economy on the highway, but in the city Mr. Hyde shows his ugly face.
I'm sure I don't have to tell you that this is made all the worse by the fact that you have to use 91 octane fuel which is now north of $1.40 per litre in many Canadian cities.
Here's the thing; your break-in period can be as high 5,000 kilometres, depending on your driving habits, so you are well on your way to reaching that figure. But this does not guarantee a substantial improvement in fuel economy - especially with this vehicle. Many times there are no cures and positive diagnosis can stump the most skilled technicians.
In your case Jonathan, the fuel economy is at the bottom of the scale. What you should do is continue with monitoring and keep it logged with your dealer. Have the service department check the on-board computer for fault codes on a regular basis and send a letter to Honda Canada outlining your concerns.
Honda Canada, 180 Honda Blvd. Markham, ON L6C 0H9
It's important to keep an accurate log to build your case, should you decide to ramp this up.
There are times when questions go unanswered due to the intangibles - such as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde syndromes.
*****
Correction: It has come to our attention that CAMVAP "Does not cover claims for fuel efficiency as the results can be very subjective and dependent upon a number of conditions such as weather and the consumer's driving habits." Incorrect information appeared in the above story, which has been changed to reflect this information.
CAMVAP is a free service to consumers with automotive issues and can be located at http://www.camvap.ca/