Things You'll Need:
- Tire gauge.
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Step 1
PURCHASING
Look for tires that list their "rolling resistance." This relates to the amount of force needed to keep your wheels moving at a constant speed, so the lower the number the better your mileage. Look for tires with a rating of 0.0105 or less. Refer to the link below for the five best rated tires for each rim size. Among popular brand names, both Bridgestone/Firestone and Michelin now market low rolling resistance tires. -
Step 2
PURCHASING
If you cannot find any tires with a rolling resistance rating (which is not required), or those that are available are cost prohibitive, follow these general rules to help you find the best tires for maximizing your mileage. -- Look for tall, skinny tires with a higher maximum pressure rating. -- Tall, narrow tires tend to have a higher maximum pressure rating and also provide less air resistance. A tire with a 40 psi maximum pressure should be better than one that is rated at 35 psi maximum. This number can be found on the sides of each tire. -- Make sure the tires you purchase have the same rim diameter as the original vehicle. -- Look for smooth tread as opposed to course treads. -- Look for radial tires instead of bias ply tires. -
Step 3
MAINTENANCE
Purchase a tire gauge and use it regularly. Check you're your tire pressure every couple of weeks and keep each tire at their maximum pressure. You lose approximately .4 mpg for every pound of pressure your tires are under-inflated. Thus if your tires are under-inflated by 10 pounds, this is costing you 4 mpg. -
Step 4
MAINTENANCE
Have your wheel alignment checked at least once per year. This will not only extend the life of your tires, it will also increase your gas mileage.
