Tires play an important role in a vehicle's performance. Here we've identified key tire characteristics that have an impact of how a vehicle handles, drives and performs.
Tire Inflation Pressure
A tire's life expectancy and handling performance can be contributed in large part to its inflation pressure.
Correct inflation pressure provides:
- Longer tire wear
- Fewer tire problems
- Better fuel economy
- Better handling
Under-inflated tires can lead to:
- Reduced load capacity
- Reduced tread life
- More heat build-up within the tire
- Increased rolling resistance and reduced fuel economy
- Loss of steering precision and cornering stability
Over-inflated tires can:
- Cause the tire to be damaged more easily when running over potholes or road obstructions
- Create a more harsh ride quality, by not isolating the vehicle from road irregularities
For these reasons, it's important to check inflation pressure regularly to make sure it's at the optimum inflation. Checking tire pressure frequently can also identify a slow leak, allowing it to be repaired before the tire is permanently damaged.
Factors Affecting Inflation Pressure
Many factors, including time and temperature, can cause tire inflation pressure to change.
Time: Tires typically lose about 1 pound per square inch (psi) of pressure for every 30 days through normal porosity.
Temperature: Tires typically lose or gain 1 pound per square inch (psi) of pressure for every 10 degrees of ambient temperature change.
When to Check Tire Pressure
 | Tire
inflation should be checked monthly or any time the low tire pressure light is illuminated on the instrument panel (vehicles equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems). |