If you need new tires, or care or repair for your old tires, see the Wichita auto care and tire specialists at Tracy’s Automotive.

Thanksgiving’s a little more than a week away. Because it won’t be a big event for you this year – you’re not having many people over – you do want to make sure the kids have a good time so you’ve planned several outings for them. The first is to Tanganyika Wildlife Park.

Although Goddard is only about 15 miles away, you looked over your tires to make sure they were ready for the road. You noticed the tread was wearing thin in places and you think this might be a good time to buy a new set. That started you thinking about gas mileage and how tires affect fuel economy.

You’re right to wonder. Tires do have a big effect on fuel economy and, the better the fuel economy, the less you spend on gas. Greater fuel economy is also good for the environment.

“Rolling resistance is what it’s all about when you look to your tires for fuel economy,” metropia.com explains. “The laws of physics dictate that stationary objects want to remain that way, so moving those objects demands energy. The more resistance your vehicle has to get moving, the more fuel it will burn.”

Metropia.com says tires can affect gas mileage in four ways: air pressure, tire tread, tire size and wheel type.

Tires that are deflated by 8 psi can increase rolling resistance by as much as 20 percent, according to metropia.com. And the deeper the grooves on the tread, the lower your gas mileage. The lesson, according to metropia,com, is to check your tire pressure monthly and keep it up to the manufacturer’s specifications and, unless you spend a lot of time off roading, don’t use off-road tires around town.

As for tire size, the smaller the tire, the more efficient. But that has to be balanced with the knowledge that larger tires are better for highway driving.

Thinking of custom tires? Then, metropia.com says, “opt for a lighter alloy wheel over steel wheels. You will need to consider the weight of your vehicle and whether or not you carry loads since wheels have a designated load capacity. Think about the size of the tire that needs to fit the wheel as well! You won’t be any better off if your lighter wheel calls for a wider tire that causes more rolling resistance anyway.”

The overall conclusion, according to metropia.com: “You can improve your fuel economy by choosing the best wheel and tire package for your vehicle. Before you make changes to the stock equipment, your best bet will be to consult your mechanic.”

You can find a trusted mechanic and tire pro at Tracy’s Automotive.

While you’re at Tracy’s Automotive, check into our specials, like free road hazard protection on a set of four tires.

Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.

While you’re at Tracy’s Automotive, be sure to sign up for our giveaway of a $150 gift card and a Weber Spirit II E-210 gas grill.  The Weber Spirit II E-210 is a two-burner grill that’s built to fit small spaces, and packed with features such as the powerful GS4 grilling system, iGrill capability, and convenient side tables for placing serving trays.

Once you fall in love with the Spirit II E-210, fill out a form. We’ll be giving away one $150 gift card and one grill at each of our locations on Nov. 20.  You must enter at one of our service centers. Stay tuned for more details or ask one of the auto pros when you visit one of our service centers.

Tracy’s Automotive is here to help you. If you don’t have time or feel you can take your car to the shop, Tracy’s Automotive will pick it up at your home or work. Then, after your car is serviced or repaired, Tracy’s Automotive will bring it back to you thoroughly cleaned.

Tracy’s passion for a better tire buying, auto care and auto repair experience drove us to develop the model of Tracy’s Automotive Tire Pros. Tracy’s has turned hard work and inspiration into a booming tire and auto repair provider. Now Tracy’s has three locations and serves customers all over Wichita and Goddard. Tracy’s is thrilled to be a part of your family’s trusted brands for all auto repair and tire needs.

Tracy’s Automotive | Wichita Auto Care | Wichita Tires | Wichita Auto Repair | Maple Street Auto Care | Maple Street Auto Repair

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