Most people realize that a car or truck’s tire is an essential part of the vehicle and overall driving experience. What people may not realize is that all tires are not created equal and rolling resistance plays a large part in a tire’s overall worth. Rolling resistance is the underlining factor in fuel efficiency that directly relates to your tire. In simple terms this literally means the amount of force that is needed to keep your tire rotating. If your vehicle needs more force it is going to consume more gasoline.

Luckily there are fuel efficient tires that are engineered for low rolling resistance which reduces the strain on your motor which allows for improved fuel mileage. With gas prices on the rise some states have started conducting tire studies. These studies are designed to help assist consumers in finding the most fuel efficient tires at an affordable price.

So why are fuel-efficient tires more efficient? These tires are made with an innovative assortment of materials that generate less heat when you drive. Also the tires have a reduced tread depth that allows for an even higher decrease in tire resistance. Next time you need tires or if your vehicles gas mileage is becoming consistently worse, consider fuel efficient tires as a cost saving alternative.

In addition to fuel efficient tires nitrogen in place of the air inside your tires can improve the longevity of your tires. Nitrogen is a colorless and odorless element. As far back as 1772, Scottish physician Daniel Rutherford discovered Nitrogen as a component of air. However, while nitrogen might be plentiful throughout the universe it is a relatively uncommon element here on earth. The element can also appear as a liquid or a solid along with its most common form, gas. Nitrogen does require extra care, however. When used in large quantities in a small area it can displace oxygen causing an asphyxiation hazard. As an automotive tool it should be left to the professionals.

Over the years nitrogen tire inflation has been used in many applications that demand top tire performance. Some of these applications are U.S. military, commercial aircraft, race cars and even NASA. The reason why nitrogen helps with tire wear is because nitrogen escapes from the tire 30% slower than oxygen. When a nitrogen filled tire heats up the pressure inside of the tire is less likely to flex. When the tire pressure flexes less it helps the tire stay at recommended pressure. When the tires remain at OEM recommended pressures fuel mileage is vastly improved, saving you money in the long run. So next time you get your tires changed, ask about nitrogen!