While tire pressure may not be a priority when you get behind the wheel, proper inflation is vital to both your safety and the condition of your car. When your wheels lose air, your vehicle is at risk of sustaining flats or blowouts. Here is what you need to know to understand and handle the problem.

The Causes of Low Tire Pressure

One of the most common reasons tires lose air is because they’re slowly leaking through a minuscule opening. Those tears can develop if you drive over a nail or hit a curb, leading to a small, yet damaging puncture. You may not be aware of it right away, but over several hours—or a few days—the tire will slowly flatten. If it happens while you’re driving, you may feel the steering wheel pull to one side.  

Changes in temperature are another culprit. Dense, cold air takes up far less space than thick, oppressive, hot air. When the temperature drops by 10 degrees or more, your tires can lose anywhere from one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Although warmer temperatures will restore the pressure, it’s usually not the case during winter when it’s consistently cold.

How to Prevent Low Tire Pressure

Your car exerts far more effort to drive when tire pressure is low. That affects its fuel economy and drives up your costs significantly. It also makes the car more difficult to maneuver, and you may have trouble handling it in more tricky situations, like traffic jams or when you need to suddenly apply the brakes. It can also impact the life of your tires by causing excess wear. You can prevent all of these issues by proactively maintaining the pressure.

Inspect the tires frequently. If they’re especially worn on the outer edges, it’s usually an indication that they’re underinflated. Be aware of how often you’re refilling them, as well. If the tire pressure light continues to illuminate, there could be a hole somewhere. And to remain safe on the road during winter, you’ll need to check the pressure at least weekly and inflate the wheels to the manufacturer recommended level.

Are you concerned about the condition of your tires? The experts at 21 Ave Tire Repair in Paterson, NJ, are ready to help you get back on the road safely. Owned by an industrial mechanic, this tire repair facility is committed to fixing any faults. Whether your tires are balding or require a minor patch, you can trust in these professionals to assist. Visit them online to learn more about their services or call (973) 225-0923.