All tyres lose pressure over time. Ensuring that your car’s tyres are correctly inflated should be considered part of your regular vehicle maintenance.
How do you know the recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle?
The recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle can be found in either your owner’s manual or the vehicle placard (typically located in the door jamb on the driver’s side). It’s important to be aware that in some instances, a vehicle may require different pressure levels for the front and rear tyres.
How often should you check tyre pressures?
No one’s tyres are perfectly air-tight. Tyres can lose inflation pressure at a rate of between 1 and 3 psi (pound per square inch) per month. Ideally, you should check your tyre pressures once a month and adjust them accordingly.
How do you check tyre pressures?
You can check your tyre pressures using a quality tyre pressure gauge, which you can purchase from your local auto parts store.
It is best to check tyre pressures when the tyres are cold. This will give you the most accurate reading of the inflation pressures. Your tyres warm up after even a few kilometres of driving, which makes the reading inaccurate.
You should compare the measurements of each tyre against the recommendations listed on the tyre placard. Be sure to check the spare tyre at the same time.
If any, or all, tyres require inflation this can be done using an air compressor - either at home or at your nearest service station.
What are the benefits of maintaining correct tyre pressures?
- Promotes even tyre wear
- Driver comfort and vehicle handling are improved
- Enhances safety as the risk of a tyre blow out is decreased and braking and vehicle handling are improved
- Improves the fuel efficiency of your vehicle
What happens if your tyres are under inflated?
- The tyre has a higher rolling resistance, which increases fuel costs
- It can lead to tyre failure through the tyre overheating
- Braking performance can be affected
- Uneven tread wear may occur (the edges of the tyre wear out faster)
What happens if your tyres are over inflated?
- The tyres contact area with the road is reduced, which is a safety concern
- Ability to effectively brake may be affected
- Vehicle handling may become compromised
- Driving comfort decreases as the tyres are unable to effectively absorb shocks
- Increased tyre wear (centre of the tyre tread wears out faster)
Your tyres have a significant role to play in the safety and performance of your vehicle. Maintaining the recommended tyre inflation pressures will prolong the life of your tyres, improve vehicle performance and safety and even save you money on fuel costs.
If you aren’t sure about checking your own tyre pressures, or perhaps have concerns about a possible puncture, the staff at Marks & Wallings are happy to assist. Give us a call on (02) 9807 1000 or come in and see us at 940-946 Victoria Rd, West Ryde.