Understanding tire pressure and maintaining the correct tire pressure for your vehicle is important for your safety on the road and the overall performance of your vehicle. When your tires are running at the correct pressure it not only helps keep you safe when driving behind the wheel, but it also contributes to the life of your tires allowing them to last longer.
Each vehicle has specifications for tire pressure so it’s important to determine what they are for your vehicle. You can find tire pressure information on the driver’s side door placard, in the owner’s manual and on the tire itself.
You’ll want to routinely check tire pressure. Once a month is a consistent schedule to go by and stick with. In the morning is an ideal time to check the pressure after the car has not been driven for an extended length of time. Driving on the road naturally heats up tires and can affect an accurate pressure reading. Many modern cars are equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that alerts you with a warning light when your tire pressure may be too low or too high. It’s still best to check the tires yourself with a tire pressure gauge. There are several types of gauges available for purchase online with a range of prices to meet any budget. You can choose between stick, digital and dial gauges.
There is no need to go to a gas station or tire shop to check your tire pressure with a gauge. It’s simple and you can easily do it yourself at your own convenience. First, locate the tire valve and remove the cap. If you aren’t sure what the valve looks like, it’s usually a small black tube with a cap on the end. After you remove the cap, place the tire pressure gauge directly over the top of the valve. Next, press the gauge against the valve and you will get a reading of the tire pressure. Compare this to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and you’ll know in a matter of seconds if you need to make any adjustments.
It can’t be stressed enough how important it is to regularly check tire pressure. The consequences of not doing it can put your safety at risk on the road and potentially others. You may also find yourself shopping for new tires much earlier than you need to be. Tires are a big purchase and keeping them at their recommended pressure gives them a longer life span. Also, if your tires are underinflated that can result in poor handling on the road and increase the chances of a blowout. Another negative consequence of not checking tire pressure and maintaining tires at the recommended pressure is that underinflated tires also affect fuel economy. When tires don’t have enough air, it makes the engine work even more to maintain speed. This will then lower your gas mileage.
Safety should always be a priority when behind the wheel. There are important steps needed to maintain the quality and life of your vehicle – understanding the importance of tire pressure and keeping it at the recommended specification is one of those important steps. You should feel confident when driving your vehicle, and you deserve peace of mind when on the road.
Managing something of this scale can be overwhelming, but rest assured it can be easily taken care of at one of the many Leith service locations. We are committed to providing exceptional service and support every step of the way. Visit any of our convenient locations and let us take care of everything for you.
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