How to Improve the 1998 Tahoe's Fuel Mileage

Due to its weight and the size of its engine, the 1998 Chevy Tahoe is not the most fuel-efficient vehicle found on the road. Its large, 5.7 Liter, V-8 engine and bulky body are representative of the SUV craze. It's also these characteristics which hinder the Tahoe's fuel economy. If you have the four-wheel drive Tahoe, you can expect to average about 13 mpg in the city and 16 on the highway. The two-wheel drive Tahoe manages slightly better at 14 mpg/city and 18 mpg/highway.

• 1

  Look at how you drive your Chevy Tahoe. Driving the SUV over 60 mph will shrink your miles per gallon drastically, due to the power needed to propel such a large vehicle. Watch your speed, drive less aggressively and maintain a three-car length distance between the Tahoe and the vehicles ahead of you.

• 2

  Search the Tahoe for any unnecessary weight and remove it. Unnecessary weight may take the form of old sports equipment, construction supplies or tools. Whatever weight you're carrying in the Tahoe that you do not need will cause more fuel loss. For instance, the Federal Trade Commission has stated that 100 pounds of extra weight can lead to a two-percent drop in gas mileage.

• 3

  Remove all aftermarket parts mounted on the Tahoe. If you've added lights, larger tires, steel or heavier wheels, step bars or any part that adds weight or alters the aerodynamics of the Tahoe, this will lower your fuel mileage. Try to keep the Tahoe as close to stock condition as you can.

• 4

  Check the Tahoe's fluids, filters and tires regularly. Oil should be swapped every 3,000 or 4,000 miles. When oil is changed, consider replacing regular oil with a synthetic. Also examine the air filter and install a new, clean one if needed. Finally, make certain all four tires are fully inflated. This will ensure the Tahoe runs as smoothly/efficiently as it possibly can, which translates to improved gas efficiency.

• 5

  Choose an alternate vehicle for long trips, errands or commuting. No matter what you do, the Tahoe cannot be as fuel efficient as a smaller car equipped with a smaller engine. Thus, you can save gas and money by using an economical vehicle in place of the Tahoe. Use the Tahoe when necessary, but combine your errands into a single trip.