Checking tire pressure is essential for safe driving and reaching your destination without tire problems during the journey. It is recommended to check at least weekly and inflate tires to the pressure specified in the vehicle manual. Proper and appropriate tire inflation is an important part of tire maintenance, helps save fuel, ensures safety, and extends tire life. Regularly check tire pressure at least once a week and every time before a long trip.
What are the impacts of incorrect tire inflation?
Underinflated tires
Vehicles with underinflated tires often result from drivers neglecting regular tire pressure checks, causing gradual air loss without their awareness. Underinflated tires negatively affect driving: the tire sidewalls compress more than usual, causing the tire to heat up quickly as you drive, increasing the risk of blowouts at high speeds. Underinflation creates more resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel, which also accelerates tire deterioration.
Signs of underinflated tires include slower vehicle acceleration, difficulty steering, and delayed steering wheel return when turning or reversing. This results in higher fuel consumption because the vehicle feels heavier and sluggish, requiring constant acceleration.
Overinflated tires
Overinflated tires usually occur when the inflation amount is miscalculated for the vehicle or when the tire pressure gauge is inaccurate. Excessive air pressure makes tires hard and stiff, reducing road grip and increasing the risk of slipping, loss of control, and faster wear of the tire's central tread. Vehicles with overinflated tires feel lighter when driving and tend to skid at high speeds.
It is recommended to check tire condition and pressure or inflate tires 1-2 times per month to prevent excessive underinflation. For heavy vehicle users, checking tire pressure more than twice a month is advised. Even infrequent drivers should inspect their tires before every trip to ensure safety and avoid accidents or failing to reach destinations due to tire problems caused by neglecting regular checks before use.