What is the effect of underinflated tires?

Underinflated tires can lead to increased tread wear and reduced fuel economy, making this answer correct. When tires are not properly inflated, they create more rolling resistance. This means that the vehicle requires more energy to move, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency. Additionally, underinflation causes uneven contact with the road surface, leading to premature tire wear, particularly on the edges of the tread.

Over time, this uneven wear can significantly shorten the lifespan of the tires, forcing earlier replacements and leading to increased costs for the vehicle owner. Furthermore, when tires are underinflated, they can deform more than usual, which negatively impacts their grip on the road and can lead to poor handling performance, higher risks of blowouts, and compromised safety overall.

Therefore, understanding the relationship between tire pressure, fuel economy, and tread wear is essential for vehicle maintenance and safety.