With the cost of living crisis, you’re probably trying to save more money than ever right now. At the end of 2022, we saw gas costs rise to 128.9%, the average food shop rising by 16.4%, and fuel prices rising by 11.5% (Office for National Statistics).
With these rising prices, the last thing you’d want to pay out extra for is vehicle costs. But is your vehicle costing you more than it should?
The condition and inflation of your tyres can have a significant impact on the amount of fuel you use, and this can add up to a significant amount of money over time. So, let’s find out how you can save yourself money each month with your vehicle, in particular your tyres.
Did you know that one of the most important things to look out for when it comes to your fuel consumption is tyre pressure?
Underinflated Tyres
When your tyres are underinflated the pressure drops and the rolling resistance increases considerably. High rolling resistance means more force is needed to keep the tyres moving, and the more force that’s needed means more fuel is used to keep the car moving.
57% of vehicles on UK roads have underinflated tyres, with each car producing a 3% increase in fuel consumption (TyreSafe). So it might be time to get those tyres checked! Save your money and save the environment when you purchase part worn tyres with Overton Automotive.
Not only can underinflated tyres lead to increased fuel costs, they can also cause uneven wear, leading to the need for premature tyre replacements. The risk of blowouts also increases, as the sidewalls of underinflated tyres are more prone to damage and failure.
Overinflated Tyres
It’s also important to know that putting too much air into a tyre can be just as bad as having too little. This creates uneven tread wear and can be dangerous to anyone travelling in the vehicle.
Overinflated tyres will increase a car’s stopping distance, which is instantly a danger in the case of any emergency braking. It can be particularly dangerous in wet or slippery conditions too, as the tyres may be more prone to skidding or sliding.
So it’s best to ignore the myths that say it’s better to overinflate than underinflate. Instead, make sure it’s between 31-35 PSI (pounds per square inch).
Wrong Tyres
Using the wrong type of tyres for your car can also lead to increased fuel consumption. For example, if you use low rolling resistance tyres on a sports car, you’ll find that your car’s performance is compromised, and you’ll be using more fuel than necessary. Make sure you use the right type of tyres for your car, taking into consideration its weight, horsepower and type of driving you do.
It’s worth noting that investing in energy-efficient tyres could be beneficial to your fuel consumption. These are designed to keep the tyre tread intact over a longer period of time compared to the standard tyre.
They have lower levels of rolling resistance, lower fuel consumption and therefore lower fuel costs. Choosing energy-saving tyres can lower your fuel costs significantly and help to save your monthly outgoings being as high as they need to be.
Worn Tyres
Worn tyres can also impact your fuel efficiency. As your tyres start to wear down, their ability to grip the road decreases, which can lead to reduced handling and longer stopping distances. This means your engine has to work harder to maintain the same speed, and you’ll use more fuel in the process.
To avoid these risks, it’s important to regularly check your tyres for signs of wear and replace them when needed. Always ensure you replace your tyres when they reach the minimum tread depth, which is usually 3mm.
In addition to the impact on fuel economy, worn tyres can also lead to more frequent tyre replacements. As tyres wear down, they become more prone to punctures which could lead to the need for premature replacement. This can be an unexpected and costly expense, particularly if multiple tyres need to be replaced at once.
Taking care of your car tyres can have a big impact on your fuel efficiency and your pocket. Make sure you check your tyre pressure regularly, replace worn tyres and use the right type of tyres for your car to avoid wasting fuel.
Save yourself from paying out for brand new tyres when you purchase part worn tyres with Overton Automotive.
Have any questions about recycling your tyres? Our friendly team are happy to answer any questions you might have. Call us on 01224 722 354 or email us at sales@overton-automotive.co.uk.