No matter what gas prices are at the moment, it pays to optimize your fuel efficiency any way you can. Fortunately, one of the simplest ways to improve your gas mileage is to keep your tire pressure in check.
How Does Tire Pressure Impact Gas Mileage?
Imagine you’re going for a run. Now imagine that instead of running shoes, you laced up some heavy steel-toed work boots. You’d have to expend a lot more energy to keep up the pace, right? A similar issue arises when your tire pressure is too low. Slack or sagging tires can cause excessive drag as your wheels turn, increasing the rolling distance of your tires. This forces your vehicle to work harder – and use more fuel – than it should just to keep moving.
Tire Pressure and Safe Driving
Safety also becomes an issue when your tires are underinflated. Your brakes aren’t as effective with lower tire pressure, which can lead to longer stopping distances when every inch of pavement counts. Blowouts are also more likely, and your car’s handling quality diminishes as well.
Keep Your Tires Inflated
When your tires are properly inflated, your vehicle can perform as intended. This means your engine won’t have to work as hard, allowing for better fuel efficiency. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy says that drivers can improve their gas mileage by up to 3 percent in some cases simply by keeping their tires inflated. The savings can add up quickly, and you can thank yourself every time you stop to fill up.
Essential Tire Care
If you want to get the most out of your tires (and your fuel tank), then it pays to keep them properly inflated. Take a look on the driver’s side door jamb for your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure, and invest in a tire gauge to check the tire pressure on occasion. When your tires need air, you should be able to find a pump at most gas stations. You can also maximize the life of your tires by having them professionally rotated on a regular basis, and a skilled technician can also make sure your alignment is right so that the tread wears evenly.
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Red McCombs Superior Body Shop
When your vehicle needs serious repair work, you can count on us at Red McCombs Superior Body Shop.
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