I use Mobil-1 5W-20 synthetic, however, it is expensive. I’ve noticed better fuel economy with 5W-20, which is recommended for the Zetec engine. I would recommend synthetic motor oils, often it includes additional protective (synthetic) agents. 5W-30 has higher viscosity at higher temperatures. 5W-20 is thinner and flows better, and it should yield better fuel economy and fewer emissions. 5W-20 is recommend for a lot of engines. The feud between using 5W-20 vs. 5W-30 stems from pros and cons with each of them. During the summer, I often switch to 5W-30 synthetic
I’ve had FR wires for about a month now, and I honestly do not notice any difference in performance or fuel economy. Technically, since aftermarket plug wires produce more conductivity, a better spark should be created, yielding better fuel burns. I’ve herd great things about MSD. I don’t know the difference between the two, but in general, wires that have a lower ohms rating without radio interference should produce a better spark
Since you have a 03 model, the fuel pump recall should not apply. Many of the problems from the previous models were “solved” in the 03-04 models. Additionally, the 03 models have a lower EPA fuel economy rating for the ATX (I believe it is 24/30 for the ATX). I have an ATX and the best I’ve seen on exclusive highway is 30, and that is a rare occasion. You cannot rely on the EPA for exact fuel economy, I have never continuously logged exclusive (hard) city driving, but I have gotten as low as 60 miles in a quarter tank, which is about 18.18 mpg (60/3.3 ~= 18.18 assuming a 13.2 tank). And 20 in a more city/hw mix, a far cry from the EPA rating. Moreover, the 03 models produce more emissions than previous models. My city driving requires a lead foot or you’re going to get some angry drivers...
Hope this helps
