Motorists Can Offset Record Fuel Prices Through Improved Tire Maintenance

Proper Tire Care Can Pay Off In Fuel Savings, Too

AKRON, Ohio, April 26 -- Gasoline prices have hit record highs this spring across the U.S., and travel forecasters predict the cost at the pump could be pushed even higher during the summer travel season.

With National Tire Safety Week being observed during April 24-30, consumers have a reminder of an easy way to achieve some savings in their driving budgets.

"One solution is as close as the tires on their vehicles," according to Bob Toth, Goodyear's marketing manager for auto tires. "As drivers complain about the steep prices at fuel pumps, many don't realize they have the ability to significantly reduce their transportation costs."

Gas prices have climbed this year, and the national average for regular unleaded gasoline set a record April 11 at $2.28 per gallon, according to motorist club AAA. In some areas, such as California, the average is considerably higher. Los Angeles, for example, peaked at $2.63 per gallon on April 13.

With fuel costs taking a bigger bite out of the wallet, there is more reason to focus attention on tire maintenance.

According to Goodyear, running a tire 20 percent underinflated -- only 5 to 7 pounds per square inch -- can increase fuel consumption by 10 percent. That can easily cost motorists two or three miles per gallon. Not only that, but the tire's tread life is potentially reduced by 15 percent.

The U.S. Energy Department has reported that every pound per square inch of tire underinflation wastes 4 million gallons of gas daily in the U.S. At today's prices and with more vehicles on the road, that's a huge expense.

"An underinflated tire doesn't roll as smoothly or as easily as it was intended, so it uses more energy, robbing the vehicle of fuel efficiency. If motorists understood this, they might realize why tire maintenance is so important," Toth said.

According to recent research by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), which sponsors National Tire Safety Week, 85 percent of drivers surveyed do not check their tire pressure properly, and many simply do not know enough about how to care for their tires correctly. The survey found that two of every three drivers don't even know where to find the recommended proper tire inflation pressure for their vehicles' tires.

Goodyear recommends that motorists should check tire inflation monthly or before a long trip. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations printed on the vehicle door placard or in the owner's manual, not the maximum limit stamped on a tire sidewall.

In addition, Goodyear, which operates complete tire and automotive service centers nationwide, recommends consumers follow other vehicle maintenance practices to protect their automotive investments and perhaps further reduce fuel costs.

Other basic maintenance, like having clean fluids and filters, can contribute to a better-performing vehicle, which could translate into more efficiency and an improvement in fuel economy.

"Anything a motorist can do to improve vehicle maintenance -- from tires to engine, or any other component -- can pay off at the gas pump," said Toth. "We hope events like National Tire Safety Week help to convince the public of the safety and cost-saving benefits of a good tire maintenance program."

On http://www.goodyeartires.com/ , visitors will find extensive information on tire care, product selection and more. A section called "Know Your Tires" details how a tire is made and provides tire maintenance tips. Through a link, website visitors can request a copy of "The Complete Tire Safety Guide," which also offers advice on proper tire care.

For details about any of Goodyear's tires, visit http://www.goodyeartires.com/ .