Why maintaining proper tire pressure is critical

Your tires are the main point of contact between your vehicle and the road so you should maintain the proper air pressure in them, especially if you travel a lot. So why are inflated and uninflated tires so risky? Here is the answer.

• When tire pressure is too low

When the air pressure per square inch is very low in your tires, it not only reduces its life but also increases traction (or rolling resistance) such as:

• Too often the tread is in contact with the ground and in turn, this will cause premature wear of the tread resulting in uneven wear of the tread, possibly resulting in overheating, tread separation, and possibly loss of vehicle control.
• The renewed resistance of the tires will increase your fuel bill, because the engine will have to work harder to move your car forward.

Are high pressure tires better?
While you might think solid tires are better, the opposite is true. If the air pressure is too high it will make it hard, as a result of:

• Your vehicle will be more sensitive to bumps and shocks caused by potholes, which can prematurely damage your suspension.
• What’s more, the tread will wear out faster and traction will be reduced, which is fatal when you change corners.
• Most importantly, hard tires negatively affect stopping distance, which is essential when the road is wet.

So check the tire pressure regularly about once a month to make sure it is inflated to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer.

How do I know the pressure is correct?
There are several ways to check your tire pressure.

• Use a pressure test gauge

This device is attached to the tire valve using a rubber tube connected to a dial with pressure numbers, which shows the air pressure in the tires.

• Easy to use and inexpensive, it provides an efficient and accurate indoor air pressure reading.
• Some portable pressure gauges are about the size of a pen and can be stored easily.

Visually check your
tires. Watch your tires carefully before they hit the road.

• Sometimes you can estimate pressure just by looking at it but you must use a scale for the correct reading.
• Always check the pressure when the tires are cold, that is, before you start driving.

Hot air will make your tires expand, especially after long drives or on hot days, making it difficult to accurately assess tire pressure. When you are worried, use a pressure gauge.
Pay attention to the level of comfort you feel when driving.
Tires that are too soft will provide traction and resist rolling.

• You may be connected to the road too much and you may feel some vibration while driving.
• High-pressure tires will not be flexible enough to cope with bumps and uneven terrain.
• This can cause the car to shake, which also affects your comfort level.

Check the sticker on the driver’s side door
The tire pressure recommended by the manufacturer on your vehicle is on the sticker on the inside of the driver’s side door.

• It can also be found on your tire wall.