Having the correct pressure in your tyres means your car will perform safely and effectively. Low tyre pressures mean uneven and accelerated wear and tear. Furthermore, you could damage other components including wheels, steering, suspension and brakes.
Checking your tyre pressure periodically at the fuel station is a good starting point. Tyre pressure gauges are cheap and easy to come by at any service station or large auto retailer. These devices are as small as a pen so you don’t need to worry about carrying a large gauge in the back of the car
It is alway a good idea to check your tyre pressures when they are cold. This will ensure a more accurate result. However, sometimes this is not possible and therefore by adding 2psi to your pressures will compensate for the extra heat associated with freshly driven tyres.
Tyres are considered cold when your vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours, or the vehicle has travelled at a moderate speed for less than 1.6km.
There are 3 main reasons for having the correct tyre pressures on your vehicle.
Extending the life of your tyres.
We all want tyres that last forever don’t we? Tyres can be expensive and usually the need for new tyres comes at a time when we are least expecting it and can’t afford them. One way to ensure the full length of tyre life recommended by the manufacturer is to keep them inflated at the correct pressures. Your pressures can be found either on the sidewall of your tyre, or on the vehicle placard. This is usually in the door well of the car or in the engine bay.
Reducing driving risks.
Under-inflated tyres can be hazardous. There is a greater possibility of rolling the tyre off the rim if under inflated. Keeping a pressure gauge handy in the car means you’ll be on top of your tyre pressures anywhere, anytime. Other risks include handling and braking issues. An under-inflated tyre will not be as responsive during cornering with longer braking distances.
Over-inflated tyres can also be a high risk. Not only will you wear the centre of your tyre much quicker, but your tyres will be extremely susceptible to a blow out. A blow out could be very dangerous especially while on the highway. Over-inflation will reduce the life of the tyre at a rate of 45% faster when 30% over inflated.
Saving you money at the fuel pump.
We all want to save a little money, especially at the fuel pump. Keeping your tyres inflated to the correct pressures will no doubt save you money. Just a 9% drop in your vehicle’s tyre pressures will mean an increase of fuel consumption by up to 5%. A regular check at the pump when you are filling up will mean you are driving at the recommended pressures.
With over 300 Tyrepower stores nationwide, our stores are equipped with the latest in tyre fitting and risk assessment equipment. If you are unsure at all of your tyre pressures and would like an expert opinion, call into your nearest Tyrepower store today.
