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New Tires- How Long For "Break In"- Lost MPG?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Walker1, Apr 15, 2008.

  1. Walker1

    Walker1 Empire

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    Hi All,
    Last week I replaced the stock tires on our 2006 with the same tires. I understand that the mileage will dip until the tires break in. Can someone tell me about how many miles that might be on average?

    The mileage went from 54.5 MPG to approximately 51 MPG. As we're not talking about the engine breaking in and this is my first time replacing tires I would appreciate any feedback. Thank you.:confused:
     
    #1 Walker1, Apr 15, 2008
  2. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    Were you using elevated pressures in the OEM tires for better fuel economy? A much bigger effect occurs if the tire installer put less pressure in the new ones than was in the old ones. Check that and don't worry about "break-in". (Tire pressure should be checked at least monthly, and checked when the tires are "cold", which for tires means "not driven more than a mile in the preceding hour".)
     
    #2 richard schumacher, Apr 15, 2008
  3. David Beale

    David Beale Senior Member

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    It usually takes a few thousand miles to break in new tires. I've seen up to 5000 mi. posted for break in.

    Note that -some- tires don't need the break in period. My Nokian WR tires didn't lower MPG when they were new. I don't know yet if they will eventually give -better- mileage than the Goodyears once they are broken in.
     
    #3 David Beale, Apr 15, 2008
  4. Walker1

    Walker1 Empire

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    I used 42 PSI/fronts & 40/rears. I replaced the stock Goodyear tires with the same and have lost 2-4 MPG. The tires only have about 400 miles on them and I'm considering raising the PSI to 45/fronts & 43/rears. How many miles does it take the stock tires to break in and give back the 2-4 MPG whack? Thanks.:)
     
    #4 Walker1, May 27, 2008
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