One thing that we see continually overlooked regarding vehicle maintenance is tire pressure. We recommend checking your tire pressures at least once a month. Doing so ensures that you find small issues before they become large problems. Things to look for are objects stuck in your tire, uneven tread wear, signs of weather checking, cracking, tire bulging, or signs that you may need an alignment.
If you have a vehicle that was made in 2006 or later, it will be equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). This is very helpful in making sure that your tires are properly inflated, however, it should not replace visual inspection. TPMS have a safe pressure range and if they are within that range will not alert you. While it is safe to drive in that pressure range, you still may not have optimal pressure. Some vehicles with TPMS will even show you the exact tire pressures, however, they will not show you other potential problems that a visual inspection can.
Tire pressure is important not only to get maximum life out of your tires but is also essential to safety. Incorrect tire pressure can negatively affect the stopping distance of your vehicle, and maneuverability. It can reduce your fuel efficiency, and no one likes burning extra fuel!
Tire pressure is important not only to get maximum life out of your tires but is also essential to safety.
To find the optimal tire pressure consult your vehicle’s manual. Generally, there will be a sticker inside your driver’s side door that will tell you the proper pressure for your tires. Make sure you check the recommendation for both front and rear, as some vehicles have different tire pressure for each location.
Tire wear can show you if your tires are over or under inflated. If your pressure is too low for long enough, you will see the outside edges (shoulder) wearing faster than the center of your tire. If the pressure has been too high, the center of your tire will wear faster than the shoulder. Maintaining proper tire pressure is an easy and effective way to make sure your car not only functions the best it can, but also ensures you are not wasting money on premature tire replacement.
When we perform any oil change or a maintenance check-up on your vehicle, we always check your tires and make sure they are filled to the proper pressure. If there are any other problems, we will let you know and we will have a convenient solution available.
Authored by: Brenden M.