'Air Care' Could Ease 'Pain at the Pump'

Goodyear Says Motorists Can Help Offset Record Gas Prices By Keeping Tire Pressure at Recommended Levels

AKRON, Ohio, March 17 -- With fuel prices at record levels, and all estimates pointing toward even higher numbers at the gas pump this summer, most motorists are probably walking past four of the easiest ways to help keep some money in their wallets.

Representatives of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company say a close watch on the air pressure in a vehicle's tires is an effective way to keep fuel consumption in check.

"Each time a driver stops to fill up his gas tank, he may be grumbling as he notices the per-gallon charges that are now in excess of $2 across the country," said John Peer, director of Goodyear's retail operations. "However, as he exits the vehicle and walks to the pump, he ought to be reminded of his four tires and the part they play in smart fuel usage."

Running a tire 20 percent underinflated -- only 5 to 7 pounds per square inch (PSI) -- can increase fuel consumption by 10 percent. That easily may cost motorists two or three miles per gallon. In addition, the tire's tread life can be reduced by 15 percent or more, due to premature or irregular wear caused by incorrect inflation levels.

The U.S. Energy Department has reported that every pound of tire underinflation wastes 4 million gallons of gas daily in the U.S. At today's prices and with more vehicles on the road, that's a huge expense.

Gas prices continue to climb, and according to the U.S. Department of Energy, the national monthly average should hit $2.15 per gallon this spring. The national average for regular unleaded gasoline hit a record today at $2.055 per gallon, according to motorist club AAA, and is forecasted to remain that way throughout the summer travel season. In some areas, such as California, the average is considerably higher.

"When gas prices are this high, it's easy to see why tire maintenance is so important," Peer said. "A tire that is substantially underinflated doesn't roll as smoothly or as easily as it was intended, so it deflects more energy and increases rolling resistance, which robs the vehicle of fuel efficiency."

According to 2002 research by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), nearly 90 percent of drivers surveyed do not check their tire pressure properly, and many simply do not know enough about how to care for their tires correctly. The survey found that 66 percent of drivers don't even know where to find the recommended proper tire inflation pressure for their vehicles' tires.

Goodyear recommends that motorists should check tire inflation at least monthly or before a long trip. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations printed on the vehicle door jamb, in the glove box or in the owner's manual, not the maximum limit stamped on a tire sidewall.

In addition, Goodyear, which operates complete tire and automotive service centers nationwide, recommends consumers follow other vehicle maintenance practices to protect their automotive investments and perhaps further reduce fuel costs.

"Many people keep their eyes open for a place that might offer gas for a couple cents per gallon less than the station down the street. However, most motorists don't have to look as hard for a money-saving opportunity that is much closer -- their tires," Peer said.

For those who consider a tire pressure check too dirty or mundane, Peer noted that at Goodyear-owned tire and service outlets, consumers can have their tires checked for free, including an inspection of tread condition and tire inflation.

Goodyear is the world's largest tire company. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, the company manufactures tires, engineered rubber products and chemicals in more than 80 facilities in 28 countries. It has marketing operations in almost every country around the world. Goodyear employs more than 80,000 people worldwide.

For details about any of Goodyear's tires, visit http://www.goodyeartires.com/ .