Take into Account a Key Factor: Tire Pressure

The pressure that the air in the tires exerts on its inner surface should be measured often and kept at an ideal level.

Why is this Important?

The air pressure in your vehicle's tires should be measured frequently as it is a determining factor in how well your car performs.

• A tire with too low pressure, even just a few psi, can adversely affect the durability of the tire.
• In fact, if the tire is too soft, it will be more likely to puncture.
• In addition, a soft tire tends to increase the rolling resistance of the tire, which will increase your gas bill.

While one might be tempted to believe that a very hard tire is ideal, too much air pressure will make it stiffer.

• The tire will therefore be more sensitive to shocks caused by potholes or other debris on the road.
• The tread pattern will wear out faster, and vehicle traction will be reduced.

So check your tire pressure regularly, about once a month, to make sure they are optimally inflated.

How do you Know if the Pressure is Good?

There are several ways to find out what the internal tire pressure is in your vehicle.

• Measure with a pressure tester: This tool, a small plastic tube connected to a dial, indicates the tire pressure. Easy to use and inexpensive, it offers an efficient and precise reading of the internal pressure of the tire. There are also portable pressure gauge models that, roughly the size of a pen, can be kept in the car.
• Inspect your tires: by carefully observing your tires before setting off, you can estimate their tire pressure. However, the air expands when it is warmed up, especially after a drive or on hot days. It is therefore sometimes difficult to assess your tire pressure accurately. If in doubt, it is recommended to use a pressure tester.
• Be careful when driving: a tire that is too soft will resist rolling, since it will follow the details of the road better, resulting in a certain vibration of the vehicle that you can sometimes feel while driving. An over-inflated tire, on the contrary, will not be flexible enough to adapt to irregularities in the road, which will affect your driving.

The ideal tire pressure for your car is listed on a sticker that should be on the inside of the driver's side door.