How many miles per gallon does a Econoline E350 get?
The Ford Econoline E-350 is a full-size van that was produced in various configurations (cargo and passenger) up through 2014. Fuel economy (miles per gallon) varies widely by year, engine, payload, and drivetrain. In general, gasoline versions tend to land in the low to mid-teens for city driving and high-teens to low-twenties on the highway, while diesel variants can be more efficient on long highway runs. Use the figures here as a guide and check the exact EPA ratings for your model year and engine for precise numbers.
Typical mpg ranges by engine
Below are the general efficiency ranges you might see across common Econoline E-350 configurations from the 1990s through the 2014 model year. Real-world results depend on payload, terrain, and maintenance.
- Gasoline V8 engines (such as 4.6L/5.4L variants) — approximately 12–15 mpg in city driving, 17–20 mpg on the highway; combined roughly 14–18 mpg.
- Diesel engines (notably 7.3L IDI and later diesel options) — roughly 15–18 mpg combined, with highway figures often in the 18–22 mpg range depending on payload and gearing.
- Gasoline V10 engines (6.8L) — typically lower fuel economy, around 11–14 mpg in the city and 16–20 mpg on the highway; combined about 13–17 mpg.
These ranges reflect common configurations over the model’s production span. Actual numbers vary by year, engine, transmission, payload, and condition of the vehicle.
Notes on year, drivetrain, and payload
The E-350 offered various drivetrain options and could carry substantial payloads, which reduces efficiency compared with unladen travel. Four-wheel-drive versions (less common) and heavy-duty cargo setups can further lower mpg. Always consult the EPA ratings for the exact year and engine for a precise figure.
How to estimate mpg for your specific E-350
To estimate or verify your van’s fuel economy, follow these steps:
- Find the official EPA fuel economy rating for your exact model year and engine on fueleconomy.gov, and note both city and highway values as well as the combined mpg.
- Note your engine code and drivetrain (rear-wheel drive vs. any four-wheel-drive option) using the vehicle’s VIN or window sticker.
- Record miles driven and gallons used over 3–5 fill-ups to calculate a real-world average mpg (total miles divided by total gallons).
- Consider payload, terrain, and driving style, as these factors can cause significant deviations from the EPA numbers.
Combining official ratings with your own fill-up logs will give you a reliable picture of your E-350’s fuel economy.
Tips to maximize mpg on an E-350
Even as a workhorse, the E-350 can be tuned for better efficiency with smart maintenance and driving habits. Here are practical tips:
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and ensure proper alignment to reduce rolling resistance.
- Limit unnecessary weight and remove roof racks or cargo boxes when not in use to cut drag and weight.
- Perform regular maintenance: clean air filters, spark plugs (if applicable), and timely oil and transmission fluid changes.
- Plan routes to minimize idling and use cruise control on highways when appropriate and safe.
- Avoid high-speed driving; fuel economy typically drops significantly above highway speeds.
Small, consistent maintenance and mindful driving can yield noticeable gains over time.
Summary
Fuel economy for the Econoline E-350 varies widely by year, engine, drivetrain, and payload. Gasoline V8 configurations typically yield roughly 14–18 mpg combined, while diesel variants often perform better on highway mileage, with combined numbers in the mid-teens to low-twenties depending on the setup. For the most accurate figure, check the EPA rating for your exact model year and engine, and track your own usage with multiple fill-ups. The E-350 remains a durable workhorse, and informed maintenance and driving habits can help you get the most from every gallon.
