I don't really bother to grill block. Or do much to try to offset the MPG loss that inevitably comes with the colder weather of winter. But yesterday, had what felt like the first day of early spring. A rogue spring day. The clouds parted and it actually got "warm". And on my usual and routine short drive to work? I was really surprised how much my MPG rebounded. During the cold parts of winter my MPG typically drops to the lowest of 41 mpg...to 44 mpg. In that range. Exactly the same drive I take every day. Only difference was the outside temperature, and I look down to notice my MPG's were suddenly in the 50's again. Which typically only happens on the freeway or on long extended drives during the winter. The temperatures are pretty mild where I am living. So I'm looking forward to a high MPG Spring, Summer and Late Fall...it's been a long winter....I had forgotten.
How long is your drive? Depend on temps warming up may take 5-7mi. Blocking grille shortens cycle by couple miles. "C" is even worse looking at 8-10mi even with 50% blocked grill
I have a daily short drive to work, I'd say less than 8 miles. And it brings my winter gas mileage down. I rebound on weekends. I'm really not complaining about it...one way or the other. I'm not against grill blocking...I just don't want to bother. I know that as far as improving winter MPG it can be helpful. I kind of like that I can use my "Car" as my own Punxsutawney Phil warning of an approaching spring or of continued winter.
I'd suspect it's not just that the car's more efficient with warmer ambient temp's, but also the "marching orders" the car gets from it's computer vary, depending again on ambient temps. Could be some threshold temperature, get above it, the computer shortens/modifies warm up behaviours?
^^^^ right?? His "cold winter season" may be a brisk 60 degree San Diego "sweater" season. Lol. Anyways, I blocked my lower grill in under 10 mins, pipe insulation and a few zip ties....
