Maintaining proper inflation pressure is highly important for driving safety, tire life, and proper fuel efficiency. Tires naturally lose inflation pressure through the process of permeation or, air passing through the pores of the tire. Changes in outdoor temperature can affect the rate at which tires lose air. Generally speaking, 1 psi (6.9kPa) of tire pressure can decrease naturally in a month due to leakage and can decrease by 1 psi (6.9kPa) for every 10˚F (5.6˚ temperature drop. The combined effect of them could add up to a severe “run low” condition; consequently. It is important to check your tires’ inflation pressure at least once per month. Inflation pressure enables a tire to support its load; therefore, proper inflation is critical.
How to Check Inflation Pressure:
Please refer to the following to properly adjust the inflation pressure.
1. The proper inflation pressure is specified by the vehicle manufacturer for each car and is listed on the “TIRE PLACARD”, which is usually located in the door jamb or near the gas cap, it also can be checked in the owner's manual.
2. Tires should be checked when they are cold (for example, after being parked overnight). Otherwise, your tires will have heated up, increasing the inflation pressure.
3. Check the inflation pressure with a tire pressure gauge every month. It is extremely difficult to tell by looking at your tires if they are properly inflated.
4. If you have any questions about how to check or adjust the air pressure, please contact a qualified tire dealer.
Relationships Between Temperature and Inflation Pressure:
can lead to tire damage. The following images show the additional heat that is generated when a tire is driven underinflated.
