Tires are one of the most critical components of your vehicles as far as performance and safety are concerned, meaning that it is important that your tires are always in working order and well-maintained. Tire pressure is one of the most overlooked aspects of tire maintenance and it should never go unnoticed.
Typical tires may lose up to 1 PSI per month under routine driving conditions. This means that you should check your tire pressure at least once per month to ensure that they are inflated to the recommended PSI. This article will take a closer look at how tire pressure can impact your vehicle’s overall operation.
Risks of Driving with Under-Inflated Tires
Driving on under-inflated tires can result in an array of different issues for the tires and your car’s performance. Lower tire pressure can result in the tires bending and building up internal heat. Having tires deflated by as little as 5 or 6 PSI below the recommended pressure can result in many issues, including:
- Reduced fuel economy
- Loss of steering precision
- Reduced cornering stability
- Increased chance of tire failure
- Greater chance of throwing off alignment or damaging suspension because the tires cannot absorb bumps as well
With under-inflated tires, your vehicle may feel slower and less responsive than it usually does. In certain cases, it may also result in additional noises or vibrations when driving, particularly if only one tire is under-inflated.
Risks of Driving with Over-Inflated Tires
While under-inflated tires are much more common, overinflated tires can also have negative impacts on your ride. Overinflating your tire by just 5 or 6 PSI can result in problems, such as:
- Reduced tire contact with the road
- Higher chances of damage to tires when riding over debris or potholes
- Increased risk of hydroplaning in wet conditions because overinflated tires have less surface contact with the road
- A stiffer, less comfortable ride
In certain cases, higher inflation may result in increased steering response and better stability, but it may also result in a more uncomfortable ride, particularly on bumpy roads.
You can avoid premature treadwear and other tire-related damage by scheduling routine auto maintenance in San Diego for your vehicle. Bring your car over to Automobile Repair Shop San Diego today. Our team of qualified auto mechanics in San Diego will inspect your tires and complete any repairs you may need for your vehicle.
Tire Repair San Diego
Automobile Repair Shop San Diego is a family-owned and operated repair shop that has provided quality tire repair in San Diego for years. We offer you hassle-free estimates and repairs in San Diego starting with a precise assessment of your vehicle’s current issues. We will tow your vehicle for FREE to our shop, organize a rental car, and work directly with the insurance company to streamline the repair process. We will even pay up to $500 of your deductible. Contact us today at (619) 330-0862 to see how we can help.