Constant stops at the gas station cut into your time and your wallet. As a result, you want tires and tire services that can help your vehicle achieve the best fuel efficiency. Located in Otero County, CO, Rocky Ford Discount Tire is the place to go for the largest selection of new tires and high-quality auto repair services, such as oil changes. Below, their experienced tire service technicians explain two ways that the rubber on your wheels directly impacts your fuel economy.

Size & Weight

The larger your tires are, the heavier they become. As a result, it takes more fuel to turn them. Size also affects rolling resistance, or friction. As you drive through a city, larger tires decrease fuel efficiency, as it takes more fuel to get them going. However, for highway driving, larger tires have greater momentum to keep them going, which increases fuel efficiency. The relationship between fuel efficiency and tire size depends on the type of car you have. Generally speaking, 19-inch tires will result in approximately 21.1 miles per gallon while 15-inch tires will result in almost 23 miles per gallon.

Pressure

Maintaining and checking your tire pressure once a month will also improve your fuel efficiency. Low pressure causes more of the tire surface to make contact with the road and increases rolling resistance. As a result, it forces your car to use more energy to keep the wheels going. With proper pressure, rolling resistance is minimized, and fuel efficiency is maximized. Find the recommended pressure for your specific vehicle by referring to your owner’s manual, or checking on the inside of the driver’s side door or on the outside wall of your tire.

Does your vehicle need new tires or tire services such as wheel alignment? Give Rocky Ford Discount Tire a call at (719) 254-3391. They’ve been working on vehicles in the Arkansas Valley area for over 45 years. They’re both a trusted dealer and a full-service auto maintenance shop. They boast the largest tire inventory in southeastern Colorado, and their extensive list of brands includes Michelin®, Bridgestone®, and Dunlop®. Whether you need tires for your car, truck, tractor, or forklift, their team is dedicated to finding you the right ones. Visit them online to learn more about how their tire services can increase your fuel efficiency.