I have a 2012 prius v (model five) with the factory P215/50R17 tires tires. Recently I had a tire blowout and ended up replacing the ruined tire with a Kelly. It was the same size tire with similar (not identical) treads. Since that time I have been getting less MPG. Whereas before I was getting about 43 average MPG now I'm getting about 40 MPG. Has anyone else experienced decreased MPG with mismatched tires?
The reason for the fuel mileage drop is the rolling resistance of the replacement. If you did not hit a curb or a large pothole the alignment should be ok. I suggest you replace the tire with the exact replacement, have alignment checked to be sure and make sure the tire pressure is correct. low rolling resistance tires, with proper inflation and alignment are a major factor in fuel consumption. Not all tires are created equal. very nice articles on the Tire rack web site. Good luck.
Prius needs Low Rolling Resistance tires to get the high mpg's. Go buy the right tire when you can Keep the Kelly for another time you need a tire fast. Mike Mobile on my SGH-i717
Yes, I hit a bumpy area at the entrance to a gas station. The tire would not have blown out with regular tires. I have not had alignment checked yet but the car is driving OK. I'll keep the Kelly on the Prius until I get new tires (soon). Then I'll probably keep the Kelly as a spare in the car because the spare that comes with the Prius is so wimpy.
