Suzuki 1983 Minivan gas mileage

by Eddie Feliciano
(Lower Mohon, Talisay City, Cebu, Philippines)

Suzuki 1983 Minivan gas mileage low. I'm Eddie and since I live in the Philippines, a car is a car whether its old or new; SUV or Suzuki 1983 Minivan. This is actually the model of my car, a 600 Every Suzuki with a sun roof as one of its features. After enjoying it for 3 years (I bought it in 1997 from a friend), I suddenly discovered that it consumed more gas than usual.

While traveling 3 weeks ago from work, I suddenly ran out of gas which surprised me. My ten liters of gasoline only registered 50 kms in my odometer which means that one liter only runs 5 kms!!! My 1983 Suzuki Minivan usually run 14 kms per liter.

I asked around and everybody told me that it's loosing compression. Mechanics advised top overhaul as an inexpensive cure. After changing head gasket, valve seals, spark plugs and the like, and spending about 7,000 pesos, my engine still consumes one liter for every 5 kilometers. My mechanic was bewildered by the result.

Since I'm a low-salaried teacher, 7 thousand pesos is a big amount. I'm saddened by this and I have to commute again an eight-ride route starting at 5.30 every morning.

Traveling on a economized vehicle is very important to reach my destination early and perform my teaching job well. I will appreciate with all my heart if somebody will tell what to do. Thank you. This is my car repair story.