Tyre Inflation: Importance and Tips

What is Tyre Inflation

Tyre inflation is the process of adjusting the air pressure inside your tyres to match the recommended level for your vehicle. Tyre inflation affects how your car performs, handles and consumes fuel. It also influences how long your tyres last and how safe they are. You can check your tyre pressure using a gauge and inflate or deflate them using a pump or a valve
There are generally two types of tyre inflation, namely: Normal / Correct tyre inflation & Over or Under Inflation

Normal or Correct Tyre Inflation

Normal / Standard or Correct tyre inflation is the recommended air pressure level that manufacturers recommend for a specific vehicle model, tyre type, and load-bearing capacity. It ensures that the tyre is inflated to the optimum level required for safe and comfortable driving, as well as maximizing fuel economy and extending the lifespan of the tyre. You can find the recommended air pressure level for your vehicle on a sticker usually located on the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual.

Under Inflation

Under inflation in tyres means that the air pressure inside your tyres is lower than the recommended level for your vehicle. This can cause many problems for your tyres and your car. Under inflated tyres have more contact with the road, which increases friction and heat. This can lead to faster wear, tread separation and blowouts. Under inflated tyres also affect your car’s performance, handling and fuel economy. They can reduce your tyre’s load capacity, increase your rolling resistance and lower your gas mileage

Over Inflation

Over inflation in tyres means that the air pressure inside your tyres is higher than the recommended level for your vehicle. This can also cause many problems for your tyres and your car. Over inflated tyres have less contact with the road, which reduces traction and performance. They can also lose grip, spin out or crash more easily. Over inflated tyres wear out faster in the center of the tread, which decreases their lifespan. Over inflated tyres also create a harsher ride, as they are stiffer and bounce more.

Importance of Proper Tyre Inflation

As a driver, you might not give much thought to your tyres beyond the occasional glance at the tread depth or a quick check to see if they look flat. However, there’s a lot more to tyre maintenance than just a visual inspection. One of the most important aspects of keeping your tyres in good shape is making sure they’re properly inflated. Here’s why it’s so important, and how our garage can help.

Safety First: One of the most crucial reasons to keep your tyres properly inflated is safety. Underinflated tyres can cause a whole host of issues, including decreased handling and control, longer stopping distances, and an increased risk of blowouts or other tyre failures. Overinflated tyres can be just as dangerous, causing a harsher ride and a greater risk of hydroplaning in wet conditions. By keeping your tyres at the proper pressure, you’re helping to ensure that your vehicle handles and responds as it should, reducing your risk of accidents or other issues on the road.

Better Fuel Efficiency: Another key benefit of properly inflated tyres is better fuel efficiency. When your tyres are underinflated, they create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder to keep the vehicle moving. This results in decreased fuel economy and increased fuel costs over time. In fact, some studies have shown that keeping your tyres properly inflated can improve your gas mileage by up to 3%, which can add up to significant savings over the life of your vehicle.

Longer tyre Life: Keeping your tyres at the right pressure can also help them last longer. Underinflated tyres can wear out more quickly and unevenly, leading to the need for replacement sooner than you might expect. Overinflated tyres can also wear out faster, as they don’t make proper contact with the road surface. By ensuring that your tyres are inflated to the proper level, you’re helping to extend their lifespan and get the most out of your investment.

How We Can Help: At our garage, we understand the importance of tyre maintenance, and we’re here to help you keep your tyres in top shape. Our team of experienced technicians can perform a tyre pressure check and adjust your tyre pressure as needed to ensure that your tyres are properly inflated. We can also provide a visual inspection to check for signs of wear or damage and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. Plus, if you’re due for a tyre rotation or alignment, we can take care of that too, helping to keep your tyres in the best possible condition for safety, fuel efficiency, and longevity.

In conclusion, properly inflating your tyres is a small but important step you can take to keep your vehicle in good shape and ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient ride. If you’re due for a tyre checkup, don’t hesitate to give us a call or stop by our garage. We’ll be happy to help you get your tyres in top shape and keep them there for the long haul.