Every responsible driver knows the basics of regular maintenance; scheduled oil changes and tire rotations are Car Maintenance 101. In addition to those two examples, there are other minor repairs and checks that could save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Easy and often overlooked task is checking your vehicle’s tire pressure. Making this simple car maintenance ritual into a regular routine is a worthwhile endeavor.
Tire pressure basics
A vehicle’s tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch(abbreviated PSI). While every car is different, a normal tire pressure is generally in the range of 30 to 35 PSI. Luckily, you can find the manufacturer’s exact recommendation in your owner’s manual. Tire pressure readings outside of the recommended range can cause significant damage to your vehicle over time. As a preventative measure, frequently checking tire pressure is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to ensure a long lifespan for your car.
Possible problems with over- or under-inflating tires
- Over-inflation: An over-inflated tire will have less surface contact with the asphalt. When tire pressure is too high, the vehicle can experience problems with handling, braking, and shock absorption which ultimately causes an uncomfortable and dangerous driving situation.
- Under-inflation: If your tires squeal when turning a corner, your tires may be under-inflated. A wheel with low tire pressure will have too much surface contact with the asphalt. Predictably, this could decrease the life of your tires by causing excessive wear and tear due to friction and heat.
How often should I be checking my vehicle’s air pressure?
The most apparent cause of abnormal tire pressure is an air leak. Seemingly innocent environmental factors, such as very hot or cold outdoor temperatures, can cause changes in tire pressure too. Hot summer weather is likely to produce excessively high tire pressure as the air inside expands with the heat. In the winter, frigid temperatures create low tire pressure because cold air condenses. For this reason, it is essential to keep a tire pressure gauge on-hand. Checking once monthly should be sufficient and easy to remember. On your phone, set a simple “tire pressure check” calendar event for the first of every month, and keep scheduled appointments with a trusted mechanic to ensure that your car remains in excellent condition for as long as possible!
