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Will I lose mileage...

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by triumph1, Jun 11, 2009.

  1. triumph1

    triumph1 Member

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    simply by replacing my stock 15 inch wheels with the stock 16 inch touring wheels?
     
  2. Rokeby

    Rokeby Member

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    I have seen it reported that due the slightly wider tires on the 16"
    Touring rims, a computed 1-2 MPG reduction is to be expected.

    FWIW, my experience is that there are 1001 other variables in play
    and it is difficult, if not impossible, to isolate the touring tires as the
    cause of such a small MPG reduction in daily driving.
     
  3. triumph1

    triumph1 Member

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    Hmmm, so, it's the width of the tire, not the diameter? What about the MFD. Does anything need to be recalculated so the MFD mileage reads correct?
     
  4. Rokeby

    Rokeby Member

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    The 15/16" measurement has to do with the size of the wheel rim,
    and with some adjustments the diameter of the tire at the bead, its
    inner edge.

    Both the standard OEM 15 and 16" tires have near identical tread
    circumfrences, so no correction of the MFD/speedometer is necessary.
     
  5. triumph1

    triumph1 Member

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    Thats good to know that I need to make no speedo correction. What about the weight of the wheel?
     
  6. F8L

    F8L Protecting Habitat & AG Lands

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    In a nutshell, yes. You will lose some fuel efficiency due to weight and likely due to tire choice.

    Even swapping to new tires with your stock wheels will usually incur a MPG loss for the first couple thousand miles or permanently until you choose a different tire.

    It is just the price you pay for better handling or appearance. :(

    The only real way to avoid this negative penatly is to:

    A. Learn how to drive more efficiently to make up for any losses
    B. Purchase a set of 16" wheels that are lighter than your stock wheels and choose a good low rolling resistance tire that is also lightweight and not too wide.