Find out the Role It Plays

With today’s gas prices at record highs, who doesn’t want to save money at the pump? We all know the type of car we drive has a great deal to do with how many miles per gallon you’re getting; however, consumption also depends on your driving habits, the condition of your vehicle, and even climate. But did you know that if your tires aren’t at maximum pressure, fuel savings plummets? Regularly checking tire pressure gauges and maintaining proper tire pressure on your car can help you improve your gas mileage.

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) conducted a survey and found that American cars with non-TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) had tires that were underinflated by 1.4 pounds per square inch (PSI) on average and 0.35 for TPMS-equipped cars.

In the late 1990s, tire failures caused almost 1,000 injuries and fatalities on the road. As a result, the NHTSA enacted the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation Act (TREAT) which requires TPMS in all vehicles as of September 1, 2007. Tire failures were caused by lowered tire inflation, traction, and tread wear among other things. It was realized that underinflated tires increase drag. As a result, fuel consumption goes up. 

For every 1% decrease in tire pressure, there is a 0.3% reduction in fuel economy. So, for a sedan that gets 25 MPG whose tires should be 32 PSI, the following situations can affect gas mileage.

  • If the driver isn't checking pressure regularly, this could reduce fuel economy to 23.1 MPG. Keep in mind, tires naturally lose 1 to 2 PSI per month. 

  • With temperature fluctuations even in a 24-hour period, fuel economy can be affected by a couple of MPGs.

  • With summer to winter generally having a 50-degree drop in temperature, there could be a drop to 5 PSI underinflation. Along with the cold weather impact on fuel economy, the extra rolling resistance could reduce fuel economy to 20.3 MPG. That's over a 5 MPG difference! 

To confirm these results, a survey at Edmunds was done with over 200 automotive enthusiasts. Even being an enthusiast, the study found that on average, their tires were underinflated 2.24 PSI or about 7%. This translates to a 22.9 MPG fuel economy that doesn't include traffic conditions, climate changes, and driving habits, which could bring that number down further. This proves how important it is to have properly inflated tires.

The recommended pressure is stated for a reason, so always keep an eye on it because safety for you and your riders is so important. Saving gas these days is essential to every budget as well.

Hooper's Tires Outlet can answer any question you have about your tires. Come see us for great savings on some cheap tires in the Rochester and Syracuse areas.