Low Tire Pressure May Cost Motorists More Than Gas Mileage During Summer Driving Season

Proper Tire Inflation Pressure Critical to Road Safety as America Packs for Road Travel

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 24 -- Motorists are preparing for their Memorial Day Weekend road trips and are doing so with a greater focus on stretching their travel budgets than ever before.

Discount Tire, America's largest independent tire retailer, encourages travelers to look for simple solutions to improve fuel economy since fuel will be a large expense that motorists must plan for this year. However, the company believes that road safety is the greater issue, since improperly maintained tires account for 33,000 injuries and more than 660 deaths on U.S. roads each year, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association.

During seasonal travel periods several problems converge that create a nationwide road safety issue. Low tire inflation pressure is a common problem that can lead to tire failure. When a vehicle is riding on under-inflated tires, along with heavier passenger and cargo loads, the chances of a road accident increase. A large portion of the traveling public will fit into the low tire pressure category this holiday.

AAA's annual Memorial Day survey revealed that an estimated 38.3 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this holiday and most will go by road. The auto club found that 84 percent, or approximately 32.1 million people will travel by motor vehicle.

Many Memorial Day travelers will drive vehicles carrying multiple passengers, hundreds of pounds of extra personal cargo and travel gear. Some will be pulling trailers loaded with recreational vehicles and equipment. All of these situations create additional tire stress.

Heat build-up inside a tire accelerates under the stress of heavy loads, which is not normally a problem for vehicles with well-maintained tires. However, the risk of a tire blowout goes up when motorists drive their heavy- laden vehicles on under-inflated tires. The heavy loads, long travel distances and hot weather conditions, combined with low air pressure, create an immense amount of heat that can break down the tire and result in a road accident.

Discount Tire already provides free tire maintenance kits at more than 650 retail stores throughout the U.S. to help motorists understand pressure, alignment, rotation and tread, which are the four essential areas of tire maintenance. Each tire safety kit includes an air pressure gauge, tread depth gauge and brochure with easy-to-follow tire maintenance tips and a safety checklist.

Motorists are beginning to understand the connection between proper tire maintenance and fuel economy. According to a 2006 Rubber Manufacturers Association survey, 63 percent of motorists cite checking tire pressure as a top fuel saving tip. More education is necessary to help motorists realize that practicing proper tire maintenance, results not only in better gas mileage, but improved road safety as well.

                   Top Tire Tips For Summer Road Travel

  1.  Get Pressure Right -- Low tire pressure decreases fuel economy.  The
      specific inflation pressure number can be found on the vehicle placard
      located on the driver's side doorpost, glove box door, fuel door or in
      the owner's manual.  For accurate pressure, check tires when cool and
      don't forget the spare.  Custom tires and wheels may change standard
      air pressure requirements, so if you customize have a pro check them
      out before you go.

  2.  Don't Overload Vehicle -- Overloading decreases fuel economy due to
      increased wind drag and cargo weight.  Handing, control and braking
      are also negatively impacted.

  3.  Rotate Before You Go -- Regular rotation helps achieve uniform tire
      wear and improve road performance.  Tires rotated every 6,000 - 8,000
      miles have longer life and help maximize your tire investment.  It
      makes sense to get a tire inspection when you rotate.  Discount Tire
      provides free inspections at all stores.

  4.  Straighten Up -- Proper tire alignment provides safe, predictable
      vehicle control as well as a ride that is smooth, comfortable and free
      of pulling or vibration.  Proper alignment helps tires wear evenly and
      last longer.

  5.  Bald Isn't Beautiful -- Lack of tread affects the tire's ability to
      grip the road.  Make sure tires don't have uneven wear, high or low
      areas or unusually smooth areas that can increase the risk of road
      accidents.

  About Discount Tire and America's Tire

Discount Tire, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, is America's largest independent tire retailer. Also referred to as America's Tire in Oregon and some parts of California and Washington, Discount Tire currently operates more than 650 stores across the country. The company provides sales of tires, wheels and related accessories and services through mail order, Internet and retail stores. At tires.com, customers can research, purchase and make an appointment for service. For more information about Discount Tire, visit www.tires.com.