I just took a trip in my 02 Dakota QC 3.7L and I only got 12 mpg...

How in the world can I increase my gas mileage?

 

WOW 12 mpg in a lil 3.7. . . .thats terrible

 

u sure your 2002 dakota has a 3.7L v6? they weren't available on dakotas until 2004 model year. if ur 'kota is has a v6 then it should be a 3.9L; v8 can be 4.7L or 5.2L. in either case, 12 mpg on the highway is bad. try a tune up on the next service maintenance. will need more info on your dak (mods like 4x4 tires, driving habits, etc) for better advice.

 

This ought to make you feel better.
I just finished a month-long trip of almost 6000 miles in my 2004 4.7L auto 4x4.
Started in Seattle and traveled all over the western states. About half are freeway/interstate miles.

Fresh Mobil-1 5W-30 and AC/Delco PFL1A filter at start. Changed filter and topped off after 4000 miles.
Miles traveled - 5821
Ga$ u$ed - 303 gallons
Avg mileage - 19.2 MPG

Not bad. Not bad at all.

 

I have the tires that the dealership put on there. I just bought the new tires about 4 weeks ago. I do have the v6 so I guess it's the 3.9L.
I don't drive crazy, I don't gun it from the red light, I just ease on the gas until I get up to speed. I don't cram on the brakes either...
I haven't had a tune up in the thing since I got it...just regular oil changes and stuff...

 

My mileage on my 4x4 2000 QC with the small V-8 SUCKS also..I cant even get 13 mpg on the freeway with mine at 75mph..I put a fresh set of spark plugs in and it did'nt help a bit..I'll cahnge my oil over to synthetic and see if that will help me any?

 

TopWop - the synthetic won't help all that much. I'd recommend testing (or just replacing) your O2 sensors. They can really foul things up if they're bad. Unburned fuel can also wreak havoc on your catylitic converter causing it to clog up, further aggrivating the problem. I'd make sure the sensors are working right and make sure the cat isn't bad. I can get 11mpg in my lifted 86 with a 3 speed auto and 4.10's, you should be able to get better than that by a lot. My 99 grand cherokee with the 4.7 got about 18 on the freeway.

 

Were you pulling a trailer, or traveling like 90 the whole way? if you said no to both of those to questions then you truck has some problems. because my 4x4 318 with the 3.92 rear often gets 19mpg on highway trips, but the 3.7 is alot newer and alot smaller. so it should be getting alot higher numbers
I agree with horatio get your O2 sensors checked, also try changing the plugs and wires.
How about your air filter replace it or get a CIA for better mpg.
you could also get a soft tonneau cover I have one and they work great lower air resistance and keep your gear dry all while saving you a couple bucks at the tank every time you fill up.
Also if you are in a hilly region don't drive with Cruise control.
and most importantly drive with a light foot (I know it is not fun, but will gain you mpg)

 

I allready installed a fresh set of spark plugs and a new air filter.The wires go into the intake manifold[4.7 engine] and appear to be in very good condition..How do I go about checking the O2 sensors,or should I just go ahead and just replace them?

I was'nt hauling anything at the time of my poor milage.

 

Here's the thing about Chrysler and their vehicles...
The engine computer is a funny thing in most of their newer vehicles. Even if you have a lead-foot for just a little bit, the engine computer will reprogram itself to give you a bit more performance, thus wasting more fuel. I've had this problem before, but it eventually will go back to normal when you treat it nicer.
Second possible problem - If the Service Engine Soon light isn't on, then it isn't any sensors. OBDII will pick up something like that, and send an alert to you. What kind of oil are you running? I would never recommend using 5W, because if you live in a warmer climate such as California, then 5W kills your motor and your performance and also can kill your mileage. Try running some 10W or 20W and change it right at 3,000 miles and see if that does anything. Try that and see if it makes a difference.
One last thing, make sure air filter is good, and try not to fill up with lesser quality gasolines. I've seen what constant use of lower quality gasolines can do to an engine. Try filling up with 76 (if around your area) 91 octane, and if not, try using Shell V-Power or Chevron.
Tune-up is recommended at 40,000 - 60,000. Make sure to change out tranny fluid at 60,000.