So you start your vehicle and discover your tire pressure light flashing on the dashboard and that’s the point when you wish you had a tire pressure handbook, right? A lot of us acknowledge how easy it is to ignore this alert due to the challenge with finding a gas station with a functioning air compressor to inflate your tires. But the truth is, that frustration pales in comparison to a blow-out on the freeway because you decided to ignore the indicator! There is a list of reasons for low tire pressure: weather condition changes, normal wear and tear, or a slow leak in your tire. Whatever the reason may be, it is crucial to get it inspected right now. But, if you aren’t sure just how to go about checking your tire pressure, do not fret. Gallatin Honda wants to help with this handy tire pressure guide.
What is Tire Pressure?
“Cold inflation pressure is the inflation pressure of tires before the car is driven and the tires warmed up. Recommended cold inflation pressure is displayed on the owner’s manual and on the placard (or sticker) attached to the vehicle door edge, pillar, glove box door or fuel filler flap. Drivers are encouraged to make sure their tires are adequately inflated, as suboptimal tire pressure can greatly reduce fuel economy, increase emissions, increased wear on the edges of the tire surface, and can lead to premature failure of the tire. Excessive pressure, on the other hand, may lead to impact-breaks, decrease braking performance, and cause uneven wear (i.e., greater wear on the center part of the tire surface).”
Your first step in inspecting your tire’s air pressure is to make sure the tires are “cold” meaning they haven’t been driven on for at least one hour. This will give you the most precise PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch) measurement.
Second, locate the auto maker’s recommended PSI. This can be located in the owner’s manual or stamped inside the driver’s side door. Jot down the PSI requirements and head to your nearest air pump. You can usually find one at most car washes, service stations, or tire shops. A single use will probably cost about $0.50 to $2.00.
Third, check the tire pressure with a PSI gauge. These gauges can be found at any retail store’s automotive department, an auto parts store, or sometimes they are already installed on the air pumps themselves. Simply fill the tire or tires to the specified PSI level then inspect the PSI one final time and you’re ready to roll!
The most effective routine is to inspect your tire pressure routinely by the month. In many modern-day cars, trucks, and SUVs, you can browse the control panel settings for a digital measurement of the PSI for all the tires. The computer-generated estimate, occasionally, can become slightly off. Therefore, the best approach is to use a PSI gauge.
Chillier climates can influence PSI as well. According to Goodyear, for every 10 degrees the temperature drops, your tire pressure can decrease by 1-2 pounds and vice versa for temperature increases.
Maintaining your car’s tires is essential for fuel economy, automotive safety, and performance. It’s what keeps your car rolling. A flat tire or a blowout on the road is not only a headache to deal with but it’s also very dangerous if there is not an emergency lane readily available. Treat your vehicle to some TLC and it will take care of you and your passengers for many smooth riding roads to come.
Are you concerned about your tire pressure, but aren’t quite sure what to do? Don’t worry. Our factory-certified Honda technicians are your go-to team. Drop by our service department today and allow us to have a look at your tires. Don’t wait until they’re flat. The best thing for low tire pressure is to assess and fix issues early, when there is still air pressure in it.
Tire Pressure Guide | Gallatin Honda