Tire Pressure

Tire Pressure Changes

A change in season means a change in temperature. The fluctuating weather results in more than just a wardrobe overhaul; tire pressure is affected just as much as our decision to wear shorts and sandals or snow pants and boots. 

Tire Pressure Warnings

As the weather grows colder, you may get a dashboard alerts warning of low tire pressure. You can fill up the tire, only to have the same alert ding the following week. This is why it is important to understand tire pressure. 

What Should Your Tire Pressure Be?

Tire pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch), and experts recommend a consistent PSI of 30-35 PSI, though vehicle and tire performance can vary depending on manufacturer. If you don't know your tire's suggested PSI, check out the reminders in your vehicle's manual or on a sticker located on the inside of the door. Tire manufactures have imprinted reminders directly on the tires; check below the name of the manufacture for the maximum PSI recommendation. 

How Does Weather Affect Tire Pressure

So what does a change in the outside temperature mean for your tires? A 10 degree difference in temperature can adversely affect the performance of tires, so it makes sense to check their pressure when there is a significant shift in weather. Though it is best to fill up tires when they're cold, the arctic chill of winter isn't exactly the same as "cold!" Cold air contracts in the tires, lowering pressure, and that's when those dashboard alerts start. To avoid this, check the pressure first thing in the morning, not after driving a long distance, because the friction caused by tire-to-road contact results in heating up the air, affecting the accuracy of pressure. Driving on underinflated tires means poorer gas mileage, overall performance, but it also means an increased risk of a blowout. Rule of thumb: the colder the weather, the more often you should check tire pressure.