No matter how much state-of-the-art engineering and technology is put behind tire manufacturing, tires will always have an effect on gas mileage. Whether it be weight, drag, or rolling resistance, there isn’t a tire type that excels in all to provide zero effect on fuel efficiency.
All-Terrain tires aren’t far from these other tires either. Sure, there are A/T that can kill your gas mileage down to nothing, but when chosen carefully, there are a few gems that have little effect on fuel economy.
In this article, we’ll discuss how they can affect and clear some queries you might have about appropriate fuel efficiency.
Table of Contents
Reasons Why A/T Can Affect Fuel Efficiency
A/T tires are great tires for virtually any textured terrain. Drivers around the world prefer All-Terrain tires for treading uneven lands such as rock, gravel, sand, and sometimes even snow. However, they can put a toll on fuel efficiency, depending on which kind of A/T tire you are using. Here are some reasons –
Size
The size of your tire can be a reason for poor fuel economy. Due to the weight of larger tires, they require a higher rolling resistance in comparison to smaller tires. That is because to pull the weight of these tires effectively, your vehicle exerts more effort; therefore, more fuel is used to get them to roll.
However, large tires can be beneficial if you drive on the highway often at high speeds, as they help to improve fuel efficiency.
Air Pressure
Here’s another factor that might affect your car’s fuel economy. It usually happens when the air pressure in your tires is low, as it requires your vehicle to put in more effort in response to high resistance to bring out any motion.
On the bright side, this issue can be avoided. Just make sure you maintain the appropriate PSI for best performance by checking the air pressure in your tires on a regular basis.
Related Guide: Can All Terrain Tires Cause Vibration?
Tread Pattern
Ever wonder why Nascar drivers use tires with little to no tread design? It’s because it impacts fuel efficiency. Less tread on tires means less resistance, enabling the cars to easily pull the vehicle to higher speeds quickly.
But since most of us don’t race, it’s better for your A/T tires to have a little tread because they help to stop the car in a short time during times of urgency.
A/T tires with aggressive tread patterns are meant for off-road use, so if you find yourself not off-roading often, it’s best to opt for the top-rated All Terrain tires that are suited to your driving habits.
Conclusion
Do All-Terrain tires affect gas mileage? Well, the truth is, A/T tires have some negative effects on gas mileage, but so do most tires.
The wisest option is to look for the ones that fit your driving habits, aren’t too big, have an adequate amount of tread, and have an appropriate psi. If these qualities are met, then you have a good set of tires on your car.
Related guide