How embarassing. Sure enough, when I replaced the ATF the engine was constantly being turned on/off to pump the fluid, backfill, etc. I checked the level while the engine was off. Last night I checked it properly (engine on) and it was 1/2 quart low. That made all the difference. Now it runs more smoothly than ever (bought it at 75K) and my MPG is back to 22 or 23 overall. Definintely worthwhile to go with synthetic (never tried new dino ATF). It is so smooth now (and not just at shift points). Highly recommended. I'd put the $60 back into new synthetic ATF long before I'd waste another $60 on headlight/foglight bulbs. I'm surprised that only 1/2 quart made such a huge difference in feel as well as MPG. I'm convinced it must have freed up a couple of hp considering the difference vs. original fluid.