Tyre Pressure Affects Fuel economy and plays a vital role in vehicle performance, yet it’s often neglected during routine maintenance. While tyres are one of the most crucial components of a vehicle, maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential—not just for extending tyre life, but also for improving fuel efficiency, driving safety, and overall vehicle performance.
In this blog, we’ll delve into how tyre pressure affects fuel consumption, enhances safety, and why regular checks should be a key part of your car care routine.
Why Tyre Pressure Affects Fuel Efficiency and Matters for Safety
Tyre pressure refers to the amount of air inside your vehicle’s tyres, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). Every vehicle comes with a recommended tyre pressure level, which you can typically find in the owner’s manual or on a label inside the driver’s door. Maintaining the correct pressure is crucial because both under-inflated and over-inflated tyres affect how your car performs on the road. From fuel efficiency to vehicle stability and emergency braking, tyre pressure plays a major role in overall safety and performance. Regular checks at a trusted tyres showroom can help ensure your pressure levels are always optimal, keeping your drive smooth, safe, and economical.
Low Tyre Pressure and Fuel Consumption
One of the main problems with under-inflated tyres is increased rolling resistance. This means more of the tyre’s surface comes into contact with the road, requiring the engine to work harder to move the vehicle.
According to various studies, under-inflated tyres can reduce fuel efficiency by 3% to 10%, depending on how low the pressure is. That might not sound like much on a single trip, but over the course of a year, it could mean spending significantly more at the pump.
For example:
- If you spend ₹5,000/month on fuel, a 5% loss in efficiency could cost you an extra ₹250/month.
- That adds up to ₹3,000 a year—money that could easily be saved with regular tyre pressure checks.
Low Tyre Pressure and Safety Risks
Driving on under-inflated tyres doesn’t just burn more fuel—it also poses serious safety risks.
1. Poor Handling and Control
Low tyre pressure reduces your car’s ability to grip the road, especially during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. This is particularly dangerous in rainy or slippery conditions.
2. Longer Braking Distance
Under-inflated tyres can significantly increase stopping distances. In emergencies, this delay can mean the difference between a near miss and a serious accident.
3. Higher Risk of Tyre Blowouts
A tyre with low pressure causes its sidewalls to flex more, resulting in increased internal heat.. At high speeds, this can lead to a sudden blowout—a potentially deadly event, especially on highways.
Over-Inflated Tyres: Not Safe Either
Some people assume that over-inflating tyres will improve fuel economy by reducing rolling resistance even more. While this is partially true, it comes at the cost of compromised safety and comfort.
- Over-inflated tyres have less surface contact with the road, leading to uneven tyre wear, especially in the centre.
- This also results in a harsher ride, as the tyres cannot absorb road bumps properly.
- Most importantly, it reduces traction, making your car more prone to skidding—especially in wet conditions.
How to Check and Maintain Tyre Pressure
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is a simple task that pays off in better mileage, safer drives, and longer-lasting tyres. Here’s how you can do it:
- Check Tyre Pressure Monthly: Use a reliable digital or analog tyre pressure gauge.
- Check When Tyres Are Cold: Tyre pressure rises as the tyres heat up during driving.It is important to check the pressure always before driving or at least three hours after your last journey.
- Adjust According to Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Follow the recommended PSI found on your car’s door placard or manual—not the number on the tyre sidewall.
- Don’t Forget the Spare: Make sure your spare tyre is also inflated properly in case of emergencies.
Putting money into a TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
Modern vehicles come equipped with TPMS sensors that alert you when tyre pressure drops below safe levels. If your car doesn’t have one, consider installing an aftermarket system. It’s a small investment that provides peace of mind and real-time pressure monitoring.
Conclusion
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance your car’s fuel economy and ensure road safety. Whether you’re commuting daily or heading out on long road trips, properly inflated tyres will save you money and keep your vehicle performing at its best.Ignoring tyre pressure can lead to costly fuel bills, rapid tyre wear, and even life-threatening accidents. Dedicate a few minutes every month to inspecting those tires—you’ll enhance your safety and benefit your finances.
Need a professional tyre check or replacement? Visit Velociti Tyres for expert advice and the best deals on four-wheeler tyres today.
