Making sure your tires are reliable is a crucial part of automotive care. Tires that are damaged or unsuited to the vehicle are potentially dangerous. It’s also essential that your tires are at the right pressure to ensure the car is fuel-efficient and safe to drive. Below is a guide to getting the tire pressure right.

How to Find the Correct Setting for Your Tires

The best way to find the right pressure for your tires is to check the manufacturer’s instructions. The sticker is usually found inside the driver’s side door. As a general rule, pressure should be between 30 and 35 psi when the tires are cold. When driving, friction on the tires increases heat and pressure, so you should measure the pressure when the car has been parked for a few hours. Be careful not to confuse the ideal setting with the maximum pressure figure, which is on the tires.

The Dangers of Incorrect Pressure 

If the tires are overinflated, your vehicle will bounce around more and will be harder to handle. Having less control over your vehicle increases the risk of accidents. Overinflated tires have a smaller surface area in contact with the road, which reduces tracking and increases braking distances. If the tires are underinflated, your car is likely to slide on wet roads, which is known as hydroplaning. Underinflated tires are less able to bear weight, and this can result in a disastrous blowout.

Other Problems Caused by Incorrect Pressure

Having underinflated tires will cost more in gas because rolling resistance increases, and this means the engine has to work harder. Tires with the wrong pressure will wear and tear more quickly. High pressure and low pressure both put extra strain on different parts of the tire, which means you will have to adjust the automotive care schedule and payout for new tires sooner. Tires that are not inflated correctly also result in a less comfortable ride for you and your passengers.

To make sure your tires are in perfect working order, contact the automotive care experts at Springdale Automotive in West Chester, OH. The trusted auto repair facility offers everything from tune-ups and oil changes to engine repair and new parts. All models are accepted, and their dedicated staff will explain your options so you can work within your budget. To learn more about their services, call (513) 860-2760 or visit their website.