Proper tire inflation is important year-round. But it’s crucial during the fall and winter months that you regularly check the pressure in your tires. Why? Temperature swings can result in significant loss in air pressure. Air, after all, is a gas. It expands when heated and contracts when cooled. As a general rule, for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit change in air temperature, your tire will lose about one psi of pressure. A loss of just 5 psi will noticeably alter the traction and the way your vehicle handles. Improperly inflated tires can cause problems such as poor or delayed braking and steering difficulties. Here are a few tips to make sure your tires remain properly inflated:
Measure your tire pressure at least once per month. The tire pressure is printed on the wall of the tire, but you also can consult your owner’s manual to find the proper psi.
Use a good quality tire gauge. Tire pressure cannot be accurately estimated just by eyeballing your tires.
Measure the pressure when the vehicle has been parked for several hours. This is the “cold” tire pressure.
Maintain your tires regularly. This includes having your tires rotated, balanced, and checked for proper alignment at the correct intervals.
Making sure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated will help you stay safe this winter. You’ll get better fuel economy, too.