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Old 05-16-2019, 10:05 PM   #4 (permalink)
mpg_numbers_guy
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Join Date: Feb 2018
Location: VA
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Toby - '13 Toyota Prius C
90 day: 64.01 mpg (US)

Daz - '15 Mazda 3 iTouring w/ Tech Package
90 day: 38.2 mpg (US)
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If you're worried about exceeding 51 PSI then just fill them up to 45 PSI. 45 PSI shouldn't ever exceed 51 regardless of temperature, and the fuel economy difference between 45 and 48 PSI is pretty much negligible. Of course you can periodically check the pressure manually occasionally, but it shouldn't be an issue.

The grille allows outside air to rush into the engine compartment to cool the engine, which causes the engine to take longer to warm up. Most grilles are overengineered to prevent overheating in very hot climates, so most cars can have part of the grille blocked year round without heating issues, however one would need an actual coolant temp monitor for that. But in the winter, blocking off some of that grille reduces the amount of air coming into the engine bay, which allows the engine to warm up faster. Before blocking off part of the grille in the winter, the Prius would take forever to warm up just because the gasoline motor isn't used as much and so takes longer to warm up. Another plus is that the heater will generally blow in warm air faster since the engine is warming up faster.

No problem, feel free to ask whatever questions you have. There are other members on here who have had experience with the Prius longer than I have who may be able to better answer your questions regarding Toyota Hybrids too.
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2013 Toyota Prius C 2 (my car)


2015 Mazda 3 iTouring Hatchback w/ Tech Package (wife's car)
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