What Is Tire Pressure And Why Is It Important?

When was the last time you checked your vehicle’s tire pressure? If the answer is, “I don’t remember,” then you should make your way to the nearest service station now.

Tire pressure is the measurement of air inside each tire, and it is expressed in pounds per square inch (PSI). The recommended PSI for your vehicle’s tires is determined by the manufacturer and can be found by looking in your owner’s manual or on the side of the driver’s side door jamb.

The Dangers of Incorrect PSI

If your tires are underinflated, more of the tire’s surface comes into contact with the pavement. This puts pressure on a tire’s shoulders, which will wear down quickly. More surface contact with the roadway results in more friction. It will take more fuel to power your vehicle and overcome the increase in rolling resistance.

When tires are overinflated, they have less surface contact with the roadway and your vehicle will handle differently. You will not have as much control, which could be dangerous in wet or icy road conditions.

Since overinflated tires are hard, rigid and unable to absorb shock, they also are more likely to be damaged by potholes and roadway debris, possibly resulting in a flat.

When to Check Your Tires

You can’t be too careful when it comes to tire maintenance. Every time you stop to fill up your gas tank, use the tire gauge to see if you need to adjust the air pressure.

Also, stay conscious of how weather affects PSI. Warm weather can lead to an increase in pressure, while cold weather causes PSI to drop. As a rule, every 10 degrees of a temperature fluctuation affects tire pressure by one PSI.

Signs of a Problem

Stay aware of other signs your tire PSI is incorrect. For example, if your car constantly pulls to one side while driving on a straightaway, this could point to a pressure or alignment issue. If your wheels are out of alignment, this could cause a drop in tire pressure, so take your car in to see a mechanic for an adjustment.

Keep an eye on tire tread wear as well. If the outside treads are worn smooth, you have an under-inflation problem. If the inside tread is smoother than the outside treads, over inflation is an issue.

Enjoy Long-Term Cost Savings

Keeping your tires properly inflated year-round will only serve to benefit you in terms of your car-care budget. You will be less likely to have a flat tire, therefore you won’t need to pay for roadside assistance, a tow truck or a replacement.

You also will save money on gas, since properly inflated tires clock the best fuel efficiency for all vehicles.

Your tires will last longer, handle better and you and your passengers will be safer when you understand the importance of correct tire pressure. If your vehicle does run into trouble, who should you depend on? Stauffer’s Towing! Contact us if you break down or if you want more advice on how to make sure your tire pressure is set correctly.