Can Changing Your Tires Make Your Vehicle More Fuel-Efficient?
With gas prices higher than we've seen for a while, we are all looking for way to save money driving? Some of us have traded in trucks or SUV's for smaller vehicles. Some of us are going the EV (electric vehicle) route, or looking at a hybrid. Some of us are researching additives for our fuel. But, have you ever considered that changing your tires can help your vehicle become more fuel-efficient?
There are new tires on the market called "low-rolling-resistance tires". Rolling resistance is the force required for a vehicle to get its tires moving from standing still. Low-rolling-resistance tires are designed to reduce the energy loss as a tire rolls, decreasing the required rolling effort. These new tires are often lighter in weight, have more rigid sidewalls and special tread patterns to reduce the resistance to rolling. This type of tire could improve your vehicle fuel efficiency from 5 - 15%!
However, here are a few tips on how to ensure you are getting the best fuel economy from your current tires:
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Optimal Pressure - Check to see that your tires are inflated to the correct pressure levels, which is usually in your manufacturer's vehicle manual or on the sidewall of the tire. Too little pressure can cause excessive tread wear on the outside edges and too much can accelerate tread wear through the center of the tire. Maintaining adequate pressure levels will extend the life of your tire and improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
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Periodic Rotations - At our Quick Lane, when you come in for an oil change, our "The Works" package always includes a tire rotation. This will ensure even wear on your front and rear tires and keep their contact patches in optimal condition so you tires last longer and improves your fuel efficiency.
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Alignment - It's a good idea to have your alignment checked periodically to ensure even wear on your tires. Again, an alignment check is included with our Quick Lane "The Works" package.
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Replace Your Tires Frequently - As the tire tread wears out, as well as subtle hardening that occurs during years of service and exposure to the element. As estimated by the automotive industry, a 10% increase in tire rolling resistance will result in a 1-2% decrease in fuel economy. You can request a quote on new tires easily online through our website.
Whether you choose to upgrade to "low rolling resistance" tires, or continue using standard tires, tire maintenance is one of the keys to obtaining the maximum fuel efficiency for your vehicle.
