Why Is Tire Pressure Important?

Your vehicle’s tires should always be inflated to their proper PSI (pound per square inch), which is the standard rating for air pressure within a tire. The PSI for your vehicle’s tires is generally found on the drivers’ door jamb, inside your owner’s manual or on the tire itself. Proper tire inflation will allow you to have the best possible control of your vehicle and gives you a more comfortable ride.

For proper tire pressure and inflation:

• The pressure of your tires must be in accordance with the PSI recommended by the tire manufacturer.
• Tire pressure should be checked in the morning before you drive your car in order to get an accurate reading.
• Temperature affects tire pressure; when it is cold pressure will drop and rise when the temperature is warm.
• Use a dependable good quality tire gauge to monitor your tire pressure regularly.

In addition to your brakes, your tires are your vehicle’s most important safety feature. If they are properly inflated with the proper tire pressure, they will perform the way they should: proper steering, traction, absorb shock. Tire pressure should not be disregarded. It is a decisive part of the safety of your car, the comfort, the lifespan of your tires and even your fuel efficiency.

• Safety: Low tire pressure will cause friction between the tire and the road. This may cause loss of control or a blow out which may lead to a serious accident.
• Comfort: High tire pressure will make the ride feel harder and bouncier because less of the tire is touching the road. The traction and stopping distance will be affected.
• Longevity: Tires will experience uneven tire wear and your tires will need to be replaced sooner than usual.
• Fuel Efficiency: Gas mileage will decrease when tire pressure is not inflated to the correct pressure.

Tires should be inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Overinflation will reduce the tire contact with the road which will result in a rough ride and uneven tire wear. Underinflation of tires will make tires flatter and have more contact with the road which will cause premature tire wear and high fuel usage. Keep a handheld tire pressure gauge in your vehicle and check your tire pressure when you fill up your tank or at least once a month. If your tire pressure seems low, visit a gas station to use their pressure pump or visit your local auto shop for a check and air fill up.