Did You Know That Improper Tire Pressure May Drastically Affect Your Gas Mileage?
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How you treat your tires actually goes a long way in determining what you spend on gas. Tires are often neglected because people do not know that they affect their gas mileage. A good tire maintenance culture will not only make your rides safer, it will also leave a little more in your pocket.
I will give a few tips that will help you improve you fuel economy, they are simple things. You may know about them, if you don’t they are here. If you already do, then refresh your memory and get the savings you so much deserve.
You should ensure your car tires are properly inflated. Deflated tires have more friction with the road. This means that the engine has to work harder. For your engine to work harder, it needs more energy. And we all know where it gets its energy from. Make sure your tires maintain the recommended pressure. A drop of 5 pounds makes you lose 2% in your gas mileage. Please, note that they should be inflated evenly as this also affects fuel efficiency apart from its other advantages.
You need to maintain your tires even more during winter. This is because air temperature drop has a corresponding loss in your tire pressure. This makes it even more difficult for your tires to roll. Remember, the more deflated a tire is, the more friction you have.
Rotating your tires is another way to improve your gas mileage. You should get the recommended pattern for your car make and model in your owner’s manual. And apart from mileage issues, they’ll ensure your tires wear evenly with all the attendant benefits.
Your tire type also affects your gas mileage. A lot of folks don’t know that there different types of tires. And by this, I do not mean brand names. There are types that are stiffer and therefore task your engine more. Generally, Radial tires are preferred to Bias belted tires. Ask auto professionals which is best for your car. However, bear in mind that what you need is a tire that has the lowest rolling resistance. The lower your tire’s rolling resistance, the better your gas mileage. Please, do take note of this when replacing your tire.
Finally, make sure your wheels are properly aligned. Otherwise the tires will not roll freely consuming more fuel in the process. Misalignment will also affect other parts of your vehicle like the suspension. This will eventually affect your gas mileage negatively. Don’t let your money go to waste on gas or on new tires, take the time to care for your vehicle the way it is suppose to be cared for.
Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as vintage wheels at http://www.vintagewheelsplus.com