Tire PSI and gas mileage?

[fongster]

What PSI are you guys running? Factory spec'd or something diff? I'd heard from a mechanic that their independent repair shop recommended for all cars to run the tire's max PSI on the front and 4 lbs. less than that on the back. I did that with my prior car, a 2001 Subaru Outback and it helped with both handling and mileage. I've only gone thru one tank so far at whatever PSI the dealer filled my tires to so I can't really say at this point. I only got 18.75 mpg but I drive streets a lot and ran the AC all the time.

[deadrx7conv]

Max sidewall pressure is uncomfortable, and with many tires, makes the handling darty.

You'll be riding on the tippy toes of the tires. That means, you have less footprint and less grip. No way does that improve handling. Don't confuse extra feedback as improved handling.

I'm usually 2-4psi over recommended for the MPG, and because I'm using squirmy tires.

If you fill your tires to sidewall max when cold, you'll be way over max when hot and could lose a tire.

[fongster]

"Don't confuse extra feedback as improved handling."--good point!

[TrailDust]

I keep my tires at 35 PSI, and have done that with every vehicle I've owned since 1979 and have never had a set wear improperly. The ride is a bit stiffer for obvious reasons, but the small tweak in improved mileage is welcome. I've got 39,000 miles on my OEM Bridgestone Duelers, and will likely get to 43,000 this fall and yet still replace them a little early.

[becks]

33psi, I kinda split the difference. When I go on road trips with the HL loaded up I bump it to 35psi.

[nogo]

I was running 37 - 39 PSI all around and the rear-end started feeling very loose lately. I reduced the pressure a bit to around 32 or 33 PSI (no real noticeable reduction in fuel consumption).

Anyway, went in for an oil change today and reported the loose feeling from the back-end, and they discovered that the right rear damper is shot! Oil leak.

FYI - This is a 2010 Highlander Sport with 29,000 km's. I sincerely hope this is an isolated incident and not an indication of what to expect in the coming years!!

[charlieboy]

35 psi all round + 0W20 oil = excellent gas milage