Although gas prices have decreased from record highs this summer, filling up is still more expensive than it used to be. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and changing your tires is a great way to do that. While adding more air to your tires will help to some degree, replacing your old tires will get you more bang for your buck.

How Often Should You Get New Tires?

Generally speaking, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that drivers change the tires on their vehicles every six years. That’s only a general rule, though, because you may have additional wear and tear on your tires that warrant an earlier replacement. The time to replace your tires can depend on whether your driving style is more aggressive by braking and accelerating harshly or whether you frequently drive on poorly maintained roads.

Season changes are also a good time to consider replacing with season tires. Different types of tires work better for different weather conditions, so this summer is a good time to get vehicle maintenance done to ensure your vehicle is in good shape for the next few months.

What Are the Best Tires for Fuel Efficiency?

Tires with low-rolling-resistance, which are manufacturer recommended, will enhance your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy. According to the Department of Energy, four to eleven percent of fuel consumption is caused by tire rolling resistance. If you want to save time and money at the gas pump, low rolling resistance tires will give you the most fuel savings.

Can Your Tire Pressure Effect Fuel Economy?

Another way to save money is checking your vehicles’s tire pressure. In general, your tires’ air pressure should sit around 32 PSI. If your tire’s inflation pressure is way above or below that, you’ll want to make sure you add or reduce air until they’re around that number. Having tires at maximum pressure or under pressured can increase fuel usage, but having properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy and save money.

Are There More Ways to Save at the Pump?

While the best way to save the most money is to replace your old tires with new, properly inflated tires, getting your tires aligned and rotated can also help reduce fuel economy costs. When your tires are out of alignment, they can drag instead of roll, which reduces your gas mileage. Having your tires rotated also helps fuel efficiency. Rotating your tires helps reduce uneven wear to the tread of the tire and keeps the tires’ contact points as even as possible.

Schedule Tire Service at Mazda of Orland Park

If you are interested in replacing your tires for better fuel economy, we have a great Mazda service department. Our professionally trained mechanics and technicians are experts at servicing Mazda models. Check out our service specials or schedule a tire maintenance appointment today!