United Tire and Service News

Tire Pressure FAQ

3/9/2023 7:11:00 PM | (2071) View Count | Return

Tires are only thing separating your vehicle from the road, therefore it is crucial your tires are properly taken care of. Maintaining the proper air pressure in your car's tires ensures a safe, comfortable and efficient drive. The right air pressure maximize the life of the tires, meaning proper inflation will save you money my increasing the time between replacing expensive tires. The best part: tire pressure is easy to keep up with.

Expand the lifetime of your times by properly educating yourself on tire pressure and health. Below are a few of the most common questions the shop owners at United Tire & Service are asked by customers.

How do tire pressure sensors work?

There are two sensors that can determine the tire pressure - Direct TPMS and Indirect TPMS. Direct TPMS measures the tire pressure with the sensor installed into each wheel. If the tire pressure reduces by 25% from the recommended PSI, your dashboard light goes on. Indirect TPMS measures the tire pressure by working with the ABS system to determine the speed at which each tire is rolling. If the tire pressure is low, it will roll at a different speed than the rest of the wheels.

What to do if your tire pressure warning lights are on?

A warning light is meant to keep your aware of potential harzards and a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is no different. If this warning light appears, check your tire pressure. If the PSI is below the recommended level, add air in until it reaches the optimal PSI. If the PSI is above the recommended, let some air out. If the light is flashing, see a professional since your system is not functioning properly.

How to check tire pressure?

Most cars come equipped with a tire pressure sensor, which indicates on your dashboard when the pressure is low in one or more tires. But, doing it yourself is also quick and easy!

1. Grab a tire pressure gauge. If you don’t have one, most gas stations do.

2. Unscrew the end caps from your tire’s air valves.

3. Press the tire pressure gauge into the air valve to get a reading.

4. Compare the PSI reading to the recommended PSI (can be found in owner’s manual).

The air pressure in tires is measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch. The recommended air pressure ranges between 30-35 PSI for most vehicles.

What is the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle?

Usually, the recommended tire pressure is between 30 and 35 PSI. You can find your recommended tire pressure in the owner’s manual or the sticker in the door jam. Additionally, recommended PSI can sometimes be found on the trunk lid, in the console, or on the fuel door.

Why is it important to maintain the correct tire pressure?

Maintaining the correct tire pressure helps ensure optimal vehicle handling, fuel efficiency, and overall safety. It also helps extend the lifespan of your tires and reduces the risk of blowouts.

How often should I check my tire pressure?

It's recommended that you check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. You should also check your tire pressure when the temperature changes significantly.

Can you drive with low tire pressure?

While many drivers tend to drive with improper tire pressure, low tire pressure can lead to serious complications. Some of the complications that could affect your drive include:

Unsafe driving conditions
Accelerated tire wear leading to tire failure
Blowout
Loss of control of the vehicle

Can I use the same tire pressure for all of my tires?

No, each tire may require a different pressure depending on its size and weight distribution. Make sure to check the recommended pressure for each tire and adjust as needed.

What happens if my tire pressure is too low?

If your tire pressure is too low, it can cause increased tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and poor vehicle handling. It can also increase the risk of a blowout or flat tire.

What happens if my tire pressure is too high?

If your tire pressure is too high, it can cause decreased traction, a harsh ride, and increased wear on the center of the tread. It can also increase the risk of a blowout.

Can tire pressure fluctuate during the day?

Yes, tire pressure can fluctuate due to changes in temperature or changes in load. It's best to check tire pressure when the tires are cold, before driving.

Do I need to adjust my tire pressure for different seasons?

Yes, you may need to adjust your tire pressure for different seasons. In general, tire pressure decreases in colder weather and increases in hotter weather.

How to know if you need new tires

There are many reasons your car may need new tires, but these are some of the most noticable warning signs it is time to make the investment.

Your tread can’t pass a “penny” test
Uneven tread wear
Bumps or soft spots on the tire
Damage to the tire that can’t be repaired

Learn more about when to change your tires.

Schedule Tire Service Today

It's important to check your tire pressure regularly and adjust as needed.For further information about tire pressure, you can call or visit any of our 13 convenient United Tire & Service locations or schedule an appointment with us online! Our team of knowledgeable certified technicians are more than happy to answer any of your questions and get you back on the road as a more prepared driver.

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