Trip Computer MPG reading - possible correction

[Jaysom]

Just something fun ... tired of reading about all the broken stuff. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

Not saying this will work on all trucks, but it appears to have worked on mine...

Since new, I have calculated fuel mileage by hand and have compared it to the MPG reading stated on the overhead computer. On average, the overhead would be off by about 1.0 - 1.5 MPG in comparison to my hand calculations (overhead stating higher MPG then actual hand calc).
During our last trip this past weekend, I decide to try something ... I reset the MPG computer while we were driving - I did this several times during the trip. This would cause the computer to reset to 0 MPG and then climb to say 25 MPG and then finally adjust to the current MPG or cruising MPG. This was done on our way to our destination.
During our return home, I filled up, reset the computer and set the cruise control at 70 MPH. When we got home and refilled the tank, I hand calculated 20.6 MPG and the overhead computer stated 20 MPG. This was the first time my hand calculation was more then the overhead. Of course I am skeptical that the "correction" will hold, but it was interesting to see that the reset while driving may have made a difference ... Time will tell.

- J

[FamilyRide]

It was pure luck. Only way to get it right is to reset when you fill up so your hand calc and the overhead are measuring/calculating the exact same thing.

FWIW, mine's always almost right dead on. I guess I got lucky. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif[/img]

[hottip]

I noticed that the trip computer will register correctly if you hit the reset button while driving. It will search up and down and finally get the number right. Then I do the hand calculation and its within a 1/2 gallon. My Lincoln Town car worked the same way.