Things to Know About Air Pressure in Your Tires!
Vehicle manufacturers are required to list the original air pressure of tires in the vehicle's owner's manual. If the inflated pressure has varied from the manufacturer’s recommendation, it's likely that the wear and tear on your tires has changed too, and maybe not for the good! It’s probably time for a tire service to inspect the life expectancy of your tires.
Under-inflation -- Under-inflation by only 6 psi could lead to tire failure. Additionally, tread life could be reduced by as much as 25%. Lower inflation pressure will allow the tire to deflect (bend) more as it rolls. This will build up internal heat, increase rolling resistance, and cause a reduction in fuel economy of up to 5%. You would find a significant loss of steering precision and cornering stability. If the inflated pressure is repeatedly lower than recommended, your auto mechanic can determine the cause during a routine tire service.
Over-inflation -- If your tires are over-inflated by 6 psi, they could be damaged more easily when running over pot holes or debris in the road. Higher inflated tires cannot isolate road irregularities well, causing the ride to feel stiff and harsh. However, higher inflation pressures usually provide improvement in steering response and cornering stability, but only up to a point. Intentional over-inflation is to be cautioned against.
Effects of Time and Temperature -- Inflation pressures change due to time and temperature. About 1 psi per month is lost due to air escaping through the rubber as it stretches. Inflation pressure also fluctuates with changes in the outside air temperature at a rate of about 1 psi for every 10°F (plus or minus). So the inflation pressure you set correctly with an 80°F ambient temperature will be under inflated by 6 psi at 20°F. You can see why the inflation pressure should be checked frequently. Improper inflation will cause irregular wear and tear and can void the manufacturer's warranty.
An advantage of having a tire service performed frequently is that it allows a slow leak to be found and repaired before it causes permanent damage. Check air pressure about once a week, preferably before the vehicle has been driven. Spending about two minutes a week will achieve optimum performance and prevent a costly tire inspection down the road.
Need a quality tire repair? Contact our expert ASE-Certified Technicians today at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Vehicle manufacturers are required to list the original air pressure of tires in the vehicle's owner's manual. If the inflated pressure has varied from the manufacturer’s recommendation, it's likely that the wear and tear on your tires has changed too, and maybe not for the good! It’s probably time for a tire service to inspect the life expectancy of your tires.
Under-inflation -- Under-inflation by only 6 psi could lead to tire failure. Additionally, tread life could be reduced by as much as 25%. Lower inflation pressure will allow the tire to deflect (bend) more as it rolls. This will build up internal heat, increase rolling resistance, and cause a reduction in fuel economy of up to 5%. You would find a significant loss of steering precision and cornering stability. If the inflated pressure is repeatedly lower than recommended, your auto mechanic can determine the cause during a routine tire service.
Over-inflation -- If your tires are over-inflated by 6 psi, they could be damaged more easily when running over pot holes or debris in the road. Higher inflated tires cannot isolate road irregularities well, causing the ride to feel stiff and harsh. However, higher inflation pressures usually provide improvement in steering response and cornering stability, but only up to a point. Intentional over-inflation is to be cautioned against.
Effects of Time and Temperature -- Inflation pressures change due to time and temperature. About 1 psi per month is lost due to air escaping through the rubber as it stretches. Inflation pressure also fluctuates with changes in the outside air temperature at a rate of about 1 psi for every 10°F (plus or minus). So the inflation pressure you set correctly with an 80°F ambient temperature will be under inflated by 6 psi at 20°F. You can see why the inflation pressure should be checked frequently. Improper inflation will cause irregular wear and tear and can void the manufacturer's warranty.
An advantage of having a tire service performed frequently is that it allows a slow leak to be found and repaired before it causes permanent damage. Check air pressure about once a week, preferably before the vehicle has been driven. Spending about two minutes a week will achieve optimum performance and prevent a costly tire inspection down the road.
Need a quality tire repair? Contact our expert ASE-Certified Technicians today at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
