Seasonal changes, especially in temperature, will affect your tire pressure, and you may need extra tire maintenance to keep pressure within your manufacturer's recommended psi range. Adequate tire pressure is crucial for keeping your tires in good condition for as long as possible, as well as ensuring a smooth ride. If yours are running low on air, follow these steps to inflate them safely:

5 Tips for Proper Tire Inflation

1. Park Close to the Air Dispenser

Locate an air dispenser (many gas stations have them). If at all possible, when parking your vehicle, make sure you can easily reach all four of your tires with the air hose without having to move your vehicle again. This will save you a lot of time and hassle.

2. Use Your Own Tire Gauge to Measure PSI

The air hose gauge provided by your local air dispenser is most likely inaccurate. For best results, always use your own gauge.

3. Recalibrate Your Gauge

If you haven’t used your air pressure gauge since the last major season change, it’s been subjected to a major shock/impact, or if you don’t remember when it was last calibrated, recalibrate it before use.

4. Measure Air Pressure Before & After Going to the Air Dispenser

Since driving tends to heat up tires, which expands the air within, your air pressure reading will likely be higher after you just arrive at the air dispenser. That’s why experts recommend only making your measurements according to the first reading (such as before driving your vehicle), so that you don’t overinflate your tires.

5. Inflate Tires in Short Bursts

The safest way to inflate tires is to do it in short bursts. Re-measure the air pressure after every air burst, to ensure you don’t add too much. If you do, let some air out by pressing the tire valve pin with the back of the air hose nozzle, and check the pressure again.

If your tires wear out or otherwise require professional attention, get in touch with Brothers Tire Sales in Kannapolis, NC. The family-oriented auto mechanics provide a comprehensive array of tire services at affordable prices, as well as sell high quality products from Michelin & BF Goodrich Tires. Questions? Call (704) 933-2203. More information about their services is available online.