Get the Best Tires for Your Vehicle

It is a known fact that keeping tires properly inflated not only lengthens the life of the tire but also improves gas mileage.  However, there are several other factors regarding tires that can affect your vehicle’s mpg as well as the driving performance.

Studies have shown that buying new tires can reduce the fuel efficiency of your vehicle by up to a couple of mpg.  The reason for this is that new tires have a deeper tread that provides more rolling resistance that requires the use of more energy. Older tires are smoother, and thereby, roll easier using somewhat less energy.  

While you can find tires that are designed to save energy by lowering the rolling resistance, it may not be worth it in the long run.  Consumer Reports says you can make up the slight loss in mpg with regular tires that are properly inflated and maintained as well as following good driving habits.  Additionally energy-saving tires are not the best choice for colder climates that experience ice and snow as they do not perform as well under these conditions.  

There is differing opinion on whether high-performance tires are better than all-season tires.  Since high-performance tires have a lower aspect ratio that helps to improve lateral stability, they are said to resist cornering forces better and to generally improved handling and control. Although, if you live in climates with frequently wet roads, ice or snow, be sure the tires you choose are designed to handle those conditions. 

All in all, the brand name and design should not make a lot of difference in fuel efficiency.  The best suggestion is to make sure your new tires are the manufacturer’s recommended size and keep them properly inflated.  Buying oversized, undersized, or knobby off-road tires are sure to decrease mpg. 

    

At The Car Show, our motto is "If it has wheels, we sell it."  We are a family owned and operated dealership that has provided unsurpassed service to the Colorado Springs area since 1987.  Our prices are very competitive on high-quality pre-owned cars, trucks, and motorcycles.  Furthermore as enthusiastic campers, we entered the RV business in 1995 and now sell both new and used travel trailers.