ALT-7 Gas Mileage and Tires
Everything about a car affects gas mileage. The weight of the vehicle has a direct impact on fuel efficiency. Even the weight of the passengers can affect the amount of gasoline needed to power the car. The car's condition is another huge factor here. When it comes to tires, many variables can enter into the fuel equation.
The size of the tires is the first consideration. Manufacturers try to match the tire specifications for each car to maximize three areas. They are interested in the comfort of the ride. Handling of the car is another issue. Gas mileage is the final component in tire selection. Finding that magic spot where a tire improves all three areas is difficult.
As a consumer, you may be interested in the first two for comfort and safety. However, when your pocketbook starts to look a little lean, saving money on each fill up can become a big influence. Generally, as tires become larger within their diameter class, they become less fuel efficient. They are heavier and produce more friction that your car engine must overcome to drive your vehicle forward. So, staying near the manufacturer's recommendation is usually a fuel friendly choice.
Under inflated tires are fuel gobblers. A tire that is under inflated even a few pounds per square inch can change gas mileage by ten per cent or more. The tire will ride with more surface against the pavement. This produces friction and heat. Neither of these are good for the durability of the tire, but in the short run, it is your gas bill that suffers the most. This friction and heat sucks up huge amounts of the horsepower that your motor could be using to take you down the highway.
Worn tires are also a source of fuel loss. These tires are much more prone to flats and blowouts. They also are more likely to lose traction on the road surface. This hazard is bad enough, but the slippage means extra turns of your drive train are required to carry you a mile forward. It will also increase the heat generated between the road and your tire. Once again, this heat creates additional friction that requires more energy to be spent for the same amount of power output.
Radial tires are more fuel efficient than other belt configurations. These tires are designed to give more a gliding effect along the road. They also run cooler than most other styles. Most tires today are radials, but there are still some other choices out there. You might save a nickel or two at purchase time, but you will spend more along the way.
While tires are a significant part of your fuel savings program, you need to never forget that good tires serve another important purpose. They will keep you much safer if you use the right tires and take care of them.
