Tyre Pressures

Correct tyre pressure can help to extend the life of your tyre, improve vehicle safety and increase fuel efficiency.

To maintain your tyre pressures correctly, we would recommend checking them every 2 weeks or when the temperature changes dramatically in a short period of time.

 

Under Inflation Over Inflation

 

 

The Importance of Correct Tyre Pressure

There are three main reasons why maintaining the right tyre pressure is important.

The first is safety. Tyres that are under inflated can overheat which can be a major contributor to blow outs. Tyres that are over inflated give poor vehicle handling on the road. Correct tyre pressures ensure a good “contact patch" with the road surface and increase a car's handling and performace.

The second reason is economy. Tyres that are incorrectly inflated wear more quickly; they also have increased rolling resistance which in-turn requires more fuel to maintain the same speed.

The third is the environment. Correct tyre pressures help to maintain optimum fuel efficiency. This reduced fuel consumption equates to lower Co2 emissions.

Diagram 1 and 2 show the effects of incorrect inflation

Combined with the right driving habits and accurately tracked and balanced tyres, correct tyre pressures will ensure an even wear and help prolong the life of your tyres.

Vehicle manufacturers specify the correct tyre pressure for each vehicle. These are often listed in 1 of 3 places:
- The manufacturer's handbook
- The sill of the driver's door
- Inside the fuel tank flap

Always check the tyre pressure with a tyre pressure gauge when your tyres are cold. Finally, if you are using your vehicle to carry additional load or weight, always consult your vehicle handbook for the correct loaded tyre pressure.

Over Inflation Under Inflation Correct Inflation