Posted on 7/11/2025
Firestone analyzed data from over 9 million cars serviced at its stores recently, and found that 45% of Mercedes-Benz vehicles had underinflated tires. On average, they needed to add 16 psi. Higher fuel costs are a direct result of underinflated tires, because they increase rolling resistance. Moreover, this can increase tire wear as well, resulting in in need of more frequent tire replacement. According to Firestone, all US drivers (not just Mercedes owners) overspend by almost $19 billion annually just on fuel alone. But this is only first part of bad news. Underinflated tires can also cause difficulties handling the vehicle, and can also increase the risk of blowouts. Winter driving with underinflated tires reduces road traction increasing probability of skidding and sliding. We are not aware of any study that would try to quantify these additional costs – both monetary, and health costs of potential accidents due to poor handling and tire blowouts. So to minimize the risk ... read more