Maximize your tires’ performance and durability by monitoring and maintaining correct air pressure. Air is a gas, expanding when heated and contracting when cooled. For most of North America, fall and early winter are especially important times for checking tire pressure – as the ambient temperature falls, tire air pressure goes down.
A good rule of thumb is that every 10 degrees Fahrenheit temperature change, tire pressure changes about 1 psi— higher as temperatures rise, lower as they fall. Check your vehicle’s Owner Manual for recommended tire pressure.
Underinflated tires can cause:
Premature or irregular wear
Poor handling
Reduced fuel economy
Overinflated tires can cause:
Unusual wear
Poor handling
Reduced fuel economy
Checking Air Pressure
Check your vehicle’s tires at least once a month when the tires are cold (let the vehicle sit for at least 3 hours). Look in your vehicle’s Owner Manual for the recommended tire inflation for your vehicle. Use a quality gauge. Don’t eyeball tires—radial tires can look fine even when they’re underinflated. Be sure to look for objects that have become wedged in the tread—they can work themselves further into the tire and cause air loss. And don’t forget to check the spare!
