Can new tyres affect my fuel economy?

I drive an Audi A3 1.6TDI, driving 20,000 per year with fuel economy on motorways between 58mpg and 64mpg depending on weather, temperature and traffic conditions. After 38,000 miles I replaced all four tyres, staying with Bridgestone Turanzas. In addition to higher road noise, fuel economy has since dropped to 50mpg with no change in journey type or traffic conditions. Will economy improve or is there something wrong with this tyre?

Asked on 3 October 2012 by SM, Lincoln

Answered by Honest John

The rolling resistance of these tyres may not be as low as the originals, which would explain a three to five mpg drop.

Tags: fuel economy changing tyres wheels and tyres mpg

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