Does using a new tire improve fuel efficiency?     

Are you looking to improve the fuel economy on your vehicle? Though fuel costs have been lower than in previous months, many of us are still trying to save money where we can. When it comes to your vehicle, the tires you use can play a substantial role in saving you money at the pump. The question remains… does using a new tire improve fuel efficiency? To provide you with an answer, yes, new tires can save you money in terms of fuel costs. New tires have better tread, include a tire alignment, and are properly inflated for your vehicle when mounted which all boost your fuel economy in one way or another.

Better Tread

If you are driving around with old worn out tires that have an uneven tread pattern, your fuel efficiency is going to suffer. Your vehicle will have to exert more power to gain traction causing you to expend more fuel on your commutes. Tread increases your traction control – if you have tires that have lost their tread pattern, or have wires that are becoming visible, it is time to replace them for both safety and fuel efficiency.

Wheel Alignment

Whenever you buy new tires, you will have the opportunity to have them mounted, balanced, and aligned on your vehicle. It is encouraged that if you are swapping out your tires at the time of purchase to do so to make sure that your wheels are aligned properly. This can save you money in multiple ways. It is stated that misaligned tires can reduce the fuel efficiency of your vehicle by up to 10%. This can amount to 31 cents per gallon. Overtime, misaligned tires can leave a massive hole in your wallet. (Pro tip: anyone can have their tires aligned! You do not have to buy new tires in order to have your tires aligned or balanced to save you money on fuel.) A great indication that you need to have your tires balanced or aligned is a shaking steering wheel or noticeably uneven tread on your tires. If you start to notice either of these, have your tires aligned and think about purchasing new tires if the tread has worn entirely.

Tire Inflation

Not every vehicle has the same pressure needs for their tires. It is important that individuals consult the white sticker on the inside of the driver’s side door jamb to ensure their tires are properly inflated. When you purchase new tires, the technician mounting them to your vehicle will ensure that your tires are inflated based on the needs of your vehicle. It is recommended that you check your tire pressure once each month. If the weather has been fluctuating greatly between high and low temperatures, it may be necessary for you to check your tire pressure more frequently. If you are looking into purchasing new tires to improve your fuel efficiency but are not entirely sold by the three reasons above, here are other benefits to new tires… Improved safety – your vehicle will be able to stop, go, and turn more easily Increased performance – your vehicle will be able to break quicker and more safely Improved traction – your vehicle will be able to handle inclement weather conditions better Enhanced driving experience – you will feel safer driving your vehicle If you are looking to purchase new tires to improve the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, Highland Tire can help. Call us today!