Staying on top of your tire pressure, especially during the colder winter months, is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and safety. Here's why you should make it a regular habit to check your tires this winter, along with some expert tips on when and how to do it effectively.
Why Winter Temperatures Affect Tire Pressure
As temperatures drop, air molecules slow down and occupy less space. This means that the air inside your tires becomes denser, leading to a natural decrease in tire pressure. Typically, for every 10°F drop in temperature, you'll lose about one to two pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure. As a result, even though your tires might not seem to be losing air at a rapid pace, the constant temperature fluctuations can gradually cause pressure loss that may trigger your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light. If you start with tires that are fully inflated, you may not notice the pressure loss while driving.
The Importance of Regular Tire Pressure Checks During Winter
To address these fluctuations and prevent potential safety issues, most tire experts recommend conducting tire pressure checks once a month during the winter season, even every two weeks or after a substantial temperature drop. But, remember, checking the pressure in a single tire does not suffice. It's important to inspect all four tires, as well as your spare tire, since a loss in pressure can affect each tire to varying degrees.
What's the Best Time of Day to Check Tire Pressure in Winter?
It's best to check your tire pressure in the morning before driving anyplace. If you can't do that, leave your car parked for at least three hours to allow the tires to cool down so you have an accurate reading. Cold tires provide more accurate pressure readings than warm ones.
Incorporated Enrichment Data:
Besides temperature changes, tire pressure can also be affected by seasonal variations and altitude changes. During severe cold snaps, you should check tire pressure at least weekly. For higher elevations, the lower atmospheric pressure can further reduce tire pressure. Therefore, regular and consistent checks should be incorporated into your cold weather tire maintenance routine. In fact, many service stations offer free tire pressure checks as part of their services, making it easier for you to stay on top of your tires' health.
