Do different types of tires give you different gas mileage?

Question

I replaced the tires on my Acura TL a few months ago and have been getting worse gas mileage (~3 mpg). They are the same size, might be different performance levels, mainly just a different brand.

The only other thing that might be causing my problem is my undercarraige protector got trashed when I ran over crap in the road around the same time frame.

Any thoughts ???

Answer 1

I don't doubt that different tread patterns and rubber compounds can have an effect on gas mileage, but I would be more inclined to focus on tire pressure, as it has a direct effect on rolling resistance and traction. Yes, get your undercarriage protector repaired or replaced, With it missing or damaged, your aerodynamics are not the same and that can have a major effect on your mileage on the highway.

Answer 2

Yes, certain tires can affect your mileage. You said that your undercarriage was damage. That also can affect you mileage. Since you said @3 mpg, those two together can add up to @3 mpg. The under carriage lowers air drag under the car. That's why Indy cars have them. Not that the TL is an Indy car.

Answer 3

The different tire brand will have little or no effect unless you put snow tires on. Trashing the undercarriage protector resulted in aerodynamic drag which in turn reduces gas mileage.

Answer 4

A different tread pattern could conceivably increase resistance, causing the engine to work harder, and if the undercarriage protector has been bent to form some sort of scoop, acting like an air dam..................

Answer 5

Sure tires can affect your mileage. The tires will have different rolling resistance and will have more or less drag when you are going down the road.

Answer 6

Check friction, former tire and new ones, also balance and alignment.

Answer 7

can

Answer 8

it can affect your millage

thanks for answering my question