Low Tire Pressure Can Increase Fuel Consumption by Up to 20%

Tire Pressure: The Hidden Cost of Under-Inflated Wheels A slight drop in tire pressure can increase fuel consumption by 5-10%, turning daily commutes into an unnecessary expense. Regular pressure checks do more than lower fuel bills; they protect suspension components from premature wear and maintain vehicle stability. The Financial Impact of Tire Pressure When a tire is under-inflated by just 0.3-0.5 bar, the contact patch with the road expands, increasing rolling resistance. The engine must work harder to move the vehicle and maintain speed. Because a soft tire effectively "sticks" to the asphalt, fuel consumption rises. "Under-inflated tires lead to more than just fuel waste; they create repair risks. The rubber overheats, and the sidewalls wear down significantly faster, which can cause sudden failure on the highway," says Mikhail Lazarev, an automotive engineer and technical safety expert.