Which of the following practices contributes to better fuel efficiency?

Properly inflating tires significantly contributes to better fuel efficiency. When tires are correctly inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure, the car minimizes rolling resistance, which is the force that opposes the motion of the vehicle on the road. Under-inflated tires can increase this resistance, resulting in the engine working harder to maintain speed, which can lead to increased fuel consumption.

Maintaining proper tire pressure also enhances vehicle handling and safety. It ensures even wear on the tires, prolonging their lifespan and ensuring that the vehicle operates as efficiently as possible. This practice not only saves you money on fuel but also improves the overall performance of the vehicle.

In contrast, practices such as driving at higher speeds tend to decrease fuel efficiency due to aerodynamic drag. Using thicker engine oil can create more friction, often leading to decreased efficiency. Frequent hard braking can also negatively impact fuel efficiency, as it requires more energy to accelerate back to speed after braking, wasting fuel in the process.