Why You Should Regularly Check Your Tire Pressure
Automakers recommend certain sizes and pressure for the tires on your vehicle. These recommendations are based upon a number of factors. For example, they take your car’s size and weight – specifically, the weight of the axles – into account. They also consider how you’ll use your vehicle; a daily commute to the office will require a different capacity than NASCAR racing. By matching the appropriate wheel to the car, automakers can better ensure a smooth ride and dependable performance.
Many motorists have little, if any, appreciation for the effect that tire pressure has on road performance, handling, and tread wear. Today, I’ll explain how underinflated and overinflated wheels can lead to problems.
Understanding PSI
Inflation is measure in PSI (pounds per square inch). All automakers include their recommended PSI settings on the driver’s door jamb, in the glove compartment, and usually in the small door that provides access to your gas tank (for filling up). The larger the vehicle, the more pressure (or PSI) required.
For example, a small compact model might only require 30 PSI while larger sedans may need 45. It’s important that you check the manufacturer’s recommended settings to properly inflate your tires.
Lack Of Inflation
So, what happens when your wheels are underinflated? First, there’s more contact between the rubber and the pavement. That increases friction and heat. Eventually, your treads will wear down more quickly than they should and need to be replaced sooner. Also, because of the increased friction, there’s more resistance as your wheels roll. That reduces your gas mileage.
Even a small deficiency in inflation (for example, six pounds per square inch) can lead to a 25% reduction in the life of your car’s treads.
Too Much Inflation
When your tires are overinflated, a different problem occurs: they’re less capable of negotiating the terrain. As a result, potholes, fissures, and other road factors can slowly damage the treads. On the other hand, a small amount of overinflation can provide better handling and response.
Factors That Affect Pressure
Your wheels are going to lose pressure based on temperature variances and time. Generally, a 10-degree (Fahrenheit) variance will cause a loss of one PSI. Furthermore, you can expect your tires to lose the same amount of inflation each month due to seepage. That’s why the pressure can mysteriously drop over the course of several months.
You should check to make sure your car’s wheels are properly pressurized at least once every couple of weeks. Even though it’s mildly inconvenient (checking only takes two or three minutes), you’ll help preserve your treads and improve your car’s fuel efficiency. Add the task to your normal car maintenance routine and enjoy longer tread life, and better performance and handling on the road.
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Tags: Car Maintenance, Car Tips, Car Tire Pressue, Cars