SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- As gas prices hover around $4 per gallon for regular unleaded, a Springfield auto shop manager said Wednesday drivers may be able to improve their fuel economy through proper tire maintenance.

Mike Lapite, store manager at City Tire in Springfield, said low tire pressure forces a vehicle to work harder, which increases fuel consumption. “Your car is working extra hard to get your car moving, which is very huge,” he added. “Tire rotations are huge. You want to get the full life of your tire and not cause premature wear.”

Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which can improve miles per gallon. Lapite noted that hot pavement adds additional stress to tires with low pressure. “Lower tire pressure, it’s going to sit lower on the ground,” he explained. “Hot ground is going to eat away at the tires a lot more.”

Lapite said good tire maintenance can make a measurable difference in vehicle efficiency. “Your car is going to move like it’s supposed to and more efficiently,” he noted. “You’re not overworking your car, therefore saving money on gas.”

Drivers can find the correct tire pressure for their vehicle on a sticker located on the inside of the driver’s side doorjamb. “All tire manufacturers are different, so make sure you look at that sticker,” Lapite said.

In addition to tire pressure, Lapite recommended drivers ensure their tires have adequate tread life, rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, and get a wheel alignment once or twice a year.

Lapite said drivers should check tire pressure at least once a month. “I would do (that) once or twice a month because tire pressure tends to decrease at night,” he added. “And if your car sits for a couple of days, your tire pressure can go down a couple of PSI. It will go back up once you start driving because the heat expands.”

Lapite also explained reducing the amount of weight carried inside a vehicle can improve fuel efficiency. More weight requires more fuel to reach speed, resulting in fewer miles per gallon.

AAA data reflects the current regional gas price trend, with several area stations reporting prices near $4 per gallon for regular unleaded.

Copyright 2026 Western Mass News (WGGB/WSHM). All rights reserved.