A Useful Guide on How Tyres Affect Your Vehicle’s Fuel Mileage

The rolling resistance of a tyre determines its fuel consumption behaviour. Tyres with low rolling resistance consume less fuel and vice versa. The rolling resistance of a tyre depends on various factors such as the material used in its construction, tread pattern and even size.

While these characteristics are not in the hands of a motorist to manipulate, there are several other determinants of rolling resistance which a driver has full control over. If you are attentive to those, you may save hundreds of Pounds every year on your fuel bill.

Tyre Pressure

Fuel efficiency and under-inflated tyres are not something you’ll hear in the same sentence often. Let’s understand why.

When a tyre is under inflated, its contact patch increases. It results in an amplified friction and heat build-up. The engine has to expend more energy as the rolling resistance of these tyres increases with friction.

It is estimated that every 1 PSI drop in inflation pressure results in a 0.2% reduction in fuel economy. In effect, your car consumers 3-4% more fuel than it ideally should if all four tyres are underinflated by as less as 5 PSI.

Hence, it is imperative that you check tyre pressure periodically. You can use an off-the-shelf pressure gauge to examine tyre pressure at home. Better still; seek professional assistance at any local garage that offers services for car tyres in Dunham.

Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is another crucial factor that affects the fuel economy of your car. According to automobile experts, misaligned wheels can lead to a 10% increase in the fuel economy of your vehicle.

Wheel misalignment is not the easiest thing to detect. Its signs are subtle and often go under the radar. Only the keenest of drivers can recognise wheel alignment visually, which is why it is essential that you take your vehicle to North East Tyre Services for an effective wheel alignment service. They will also check the overall condition of your tyres and offer other necessary services like wheel balancing and general car repairs.

Nevertheless, you’ll do well to acquaint yourself with the most prominent symptoms of wheel misalignment-

• Uneven tread wear, especially at the edges.
• The car pulls to one side, mostly after you take a hard turn.
• Your steering wheel is off-centre. Notice the carmaker’s logo at the middle of your steering wheel. If it’s tilted even when you are driving straight, there’s an issue with the wheel alignment.

Wheel Balance

The even distribution of mass throughout the tyre body is paramount for a smooth driving experience and optimal fuel efficiency. Unbalanced wheels leave alternating heavy and light spots on the tyre body, resulting in constant vibrations of the vehicle. It ultimately puts extra pressure on the engine, and subsequently leads to higher fuel consumption.

Wheel imbalance can contribute to a further 3-4% increase in fuel consumption. Unfortunately, it can neither be prevented nor rectified at home. You have to subscribe to the service of an automobile workshop specialising in Car Tyres Dunham.

You can easily save quite a few bucks on fuel if you pay close attention to these aspects of your cat tyres.

As they say, a penny saved is a penny earned!