As air temperatures drop, if your car is fitted with tyre pressure sensors, you may well be faced with a warning. Don’t worry, the likelihood is that the change in temperature is to blame.
Why Does Temperature Affect Tyre Pressure?
While most tyres are filled with air, some dealerships use nitrogen, as its larger molecules result in reduced seepage from tyre walls and the rim of the tyre; if in doubt, contact your dealership. Air expands in hot weather and contracts in colder temperatures, so just as extremely hot weather can cause your tyres to overinflate, a dramatic drop in temperature can cause the air in your tyres to contract, leaving them underinflated.
The Importance of Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressure is often overlooked, which can compromise your safety as well as the efficiency of your car. There is no doubt, underinflated tyres cost money. Too little air can cause the tyres to overheat from friction as you drive, resulting in weakened tyres and a higher chance of having a blow-out. Underinflation affects your car’s steering and adds increased rolling resistance so you will get fewer miles to the gallon, too.
However, overinflated tyres aren’t good news either, so don’t be tempted to add a little more air than recommended to compensate for cold nights. If tyres have too much air in them, the surface area of tyre in contact with the road at any time is reduced. This means less grip, which will affect your breaking speed and control of the vehicle, particularly in bad weather conditions, where the road is excessively wet or icy; you’ll also get a bumpier ride.
Checking Your Pressure
Regardless of whether your car features tyre pressure sensors, it is worth double checking your tyre pressure as the seasons change, particularly when the night temperatures dramatically drop. To avoid dangerously low (or high) tyre pressure, you should try to check it once a month, first thing in the morning and before you drive anywhere, as friction from driving causes your tyres to heat up, which can give you a false reading.
The correct tyre pressure can save you money and increase your safety on the road. Although it is a relatively simple process, if you need help or advice about tyre pressure, particularly as the seasons change, contact a local garage or tyre specialist via Trust A Garage, who will be happy to offer you guidance on keeping safe.