The Impact Tyre Pressure Can Have On Your Vehicle

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Estimates vary and other factors can affect your miles per gallon. However, under inflated tyres could be increasing your consumption between 3% – 10%.

How do under-inflated tyres increase fuel use?

Under-inflated tyres can be one of the leading causes of tyre failure. An under-inflated tyre cause to much of the tyre to touch the road, increasing friction and wear. A tyre doesn’t need to look flat to be under-inflated, so all tyres should be regularly checked.

Here’s how your tyre pressure affects your vehicles fuel economy:

Rolling Resistance – Rolling resistance refers to the force required to keep your tyres rolling while the vehicle is in motion. Underinflated tyres have increased rolling resistance. This means that the engine has to work harder to propel the vehicle forward, resulting in higher fuel consumption. Recent studies have shown for every 1 psi drop in tyre pressure, they’re can be a 0.2% reduction in fuel economy.
Traction and grip – The excessive contact area creates more resistance, requiring more energy to overcome it. Overinflated tyres, have a smaller contact area which can compromise traction and stability. The reduced contact area may lead to poor grip, uneven tyre wear, further impacting fuel economy.

Monitoring and maintaining tyre pressure.

Regular inspections – It is important to check your tyre pressure once a month, or before embarking on long journeys. Either invest in a tyre pressure gauge or going to your local fuel station. It is also best to visually check your tyres, looking for signs of damage or uneven tyre wear.
Recommended pressure – Refer to your vehicles handbook to find the vehicles recommended tyre pressure. Remember that it may change depending on the driving condition.
Change in temperature – Tyre pressure fluctuates with change in temperature. When the weather is colder it causes the tyre pressure to decrease, whilst hot weather leads to an increase. It’s essential to check your tyre pressure during extreme changes in weather, optimizing the vehicles performance and fuel efficiency.
Proper inflation – If your tyre requires inflation it is best to use an air compressor. Ensure the pressure matches the manufacturers recommendation’s. Overinflating tyres can be just as detrimental as underinflating them.

What do people need to know about hybrid vehicles – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/what-do-people-need-to-know-about-hybrid-vehicles/

How to reduce your running costs – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/how-to-reduce-your-running-costs/