Improved Gas Mileage with Increased Tire Pressure?

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Increasing tire pressure by 10-20% can lead to improved gas mileage, as evidenced by a reported increase from 22.5 to 25 mpg in city driving. While this adjustment can enhance fuel efficiency, it may result in uneven tire wear, particularly with the center of the tire wearing out faster. Additionally, higher tire pressure can reduce traction, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. Other users have reported similar improvements in mileage with slight increases in tire pressure, suggesting that the findings align with general automotive experiences. Overall, while the economic benefits of improved gas mileage are appealing, the trade-offs in safety and tire longevity should be considered.
Loren Booda
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I had my car tires inflated by 10-20%, and my mileage (mostly city) went from 22.5 to 25 mpg. Does this sound feasible?
 
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Yes. The downside is increased asymmetric tire wear, with the middle wearing out faster than if the tire were correctly inflated. But with gas prices where they are, it still may be an economic win. Traction is less though, so there is an increased chance of crashing in some situations.
 
Very interesting.

I don't think that my tires are so overinflated, though. Assuming the tires are now at the correct pressure, do my figures above agree with automotive experience?
 
I increased my tire pressure by 2psi and saw about a 2mpg improvement in gas mileage. Sounds similar to what you are seeing.
 

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