Tire pressure might not seem like a big deal—but if your tires are under-inflated, you’re burning more fuel than necessary. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, properly inflated tires can improve your gas mileage by up to 3%. That might not sound like much, but over months of driving, it adds up fast.
Here’s how tire pressure impacts fuel efficiency, and what you can do to keep your tires—and your gas costs—in check.
Why Tire Pressure Matters
Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder to move the car forward. The result is reduced fuel economy and increased wear on your tires. On the other hand, over-inflated tires can reduce traction and lead to uneven tire wear, creating safety risks.
According to FuelEconomy.gov:
- For every 1 psi drop in pressure across all four tires, gas mileage can drop by about 0.2%
- A tire 10 psi under its recommended level can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 3% and significantly shorten tire life
How to Check Tire Pressure
- Find your recommended pressure: Look for a sticker inside the driver’s side door or check your vehicle’s manual. Most cars fall between 30–35 psi.
- Use a reliable tire gauge: Digital or dial-style gauges are more accurate than cheap pencil-style ones.
- Check when tires are cold: Tire pressure rises as the tires heat up, so check first thing in the morning or after the car has been parked for a few hours.
When and How Often to Check Tires
Experts recommend checking tire pressure at least once a month, and before long trips. Temperature changes, especially in colder months, can cause pressure to drop significantly—often by 1 psi for every 10°F drop in temperature.
How to Inflate Tires Properly
- Use a quality air compressor at home or at a gas station. Most stations offer free or low-cost air.
- Don’t rely solely on the compressor’s gauge—double-check with your own gauge.
- Inflate slowly and check the pressure regularly to avoid overfilling.
Need help finding the exact pressure for your car? Visit Tire Rack’s Inflation Guide for brand-specific guidance.
Other Fuel Efficiency Benefits of Proper Tire Maintenance
- Better traction: Properly inflated tires grip the road better, improving handling and safety.
- Longer tire lifespan: Even tread wear means fewer replacements.
- Lower emissions: Your car burns less fuel and emits less CO₂.
Stacking Fuel Savings
Once your tires are properly inflated, maximize savings at the pump by:
- Joining loyalty programs like Exxon Mobil Rewards+ or Shell Fuel Rewards
- Using Fluz to get cashback at the pump with gas gift cards or a virtual card
- Tracking low fuel prices with GasBuddy
Final Thoughts
Tire pressure might seem minor, but it plays a major role in how efficiently your vehicle uses fuel. With just a few minutes of maintenance each month, you can save money, extend the life of your tires, and get more out of every tank. It’s one of the easiest fuel-saving strategies you’ll ever use.
