my girlfriends car is getting less then 20 mpg. i have already changed the plugs, wires, cap rotor and pcv valve. the only thing i havent changed is the fuel filter. i have no check engine light and the car seems to run fine, but runs rich by the smell coming from the exhaust. also sometimes after i get out of the car i can smell unburned gas. please help what can it be???

 

Why would you not change the fuel filter? Any leakage?

 

Did you use generic parts store crap or genuine Honda tune up parts? Change your fuel filter and check for fuel leaks as said above. Also check your O2 sensor.

 

Does the CEL work?

Is the ignition timing set to spec?

Does the engine run cold?

Is there an exhaust leak near the O2 sensor?

 

i just havent got around to changing the fuel filter, the check engine light works and is not on. i dont see any leaks but havent checked and not to sure how to check for leaks. the exhaust sounds fine and dont think there is any leaks. the 02 sensor has been changed and the distribitor has been changed and set to timing.

 

Timing set with a timing gun?

Inspect the spark plugs. Post pictures.

Does the engine run cold as seen on the temp gauge in the cluster?

Automatic transmission?

Driving style?

A/C used?

City versus highway driving?

 

its auto trans and the ac is always used. its always driven in the city never on the highway. the engine runs right in the middle 0f the guage once it warms up

 

An automatic transmission Civic driven all city miles with the A/C on won't get great gas mileage. You might not be very far off from normal.

How long does it take the cold engine to fully warm up?

Driving style?

 

You have to take into account the age of the vehicle as well.

 

No you don't, I have a 92 Si getting 38 mpg average, my bone stock 93 Si got 39 mpg all original high milege

 

I understand the car is old but still shouldn't run rich and smell from gas right???

 

It don't take long at all to warm up and it driven 10 miles each way to work and back in the city

 

We'd make much faster progress when you decide it's important to provide answers to all questions. Otherwise, this is just a chat thread rather than a productive technical thread.

 

what else can i check thats all i need to know i have answer everything as best as i can