How often should car tires be inflated?
2 Answers
There is no standard reference for how often a car should be inflated, generally twice a year. Here is more relevant information: 1. Tire pressure changes in different seasons: In summer, the tire pressure should be appropriately reduced to prevent tire blowouts, while in winter, normal tire pressure can be maintained. The standard tire pressure is usually marked on the tire surface or the driver's door pillar. Installing a tire pressure monitoring device can better monitor tire pressure to prevent dangers caused by excessive or insufficient tire pressure. 2. Hazards of unstable tire pressure: Excessive tire pressure reduces the contact area between the tire and the ground, increasing the pressure per unit area, which can easily lead to brake failure, tire blowouts, and damage to the vehicle's suspension system. Insufficient tire pressure increases the contact area between the tire and the ground, exacerbating tire wear, reducing service life, and increasing the vehicle's fuel consumption.
I've been driving for nearly twenty years and have developed the habit of inflating my tires every month to avoid potential issues. For instance, one month I forgot to check the tire pressure, and it dropped to around 20 psi. While driving, I felt the wheels slipping, the braking distance increased, and I almost rear-ended another car. Since then, I've set a calendar reminder to check every four weeks. I usually use a portable tire pressure gauge, and the most accurate readings are taken in the morning when the tires are cold. The recommended pressure is listed on the label by the door—for my car, it's around 32 psi. The type of tire also affects the frequency—regular tires need more frequent inflation than run-flat tires. Weather changes can't be ignored either; tire pressure rises in hot summer and drops in cold winter, so extra attention is needed during seasonal transitions. Remember, underinflated tires also increase fuel consumption—I've calculated savings of about 10% on fuel costs, so maintaining this habit is both safe and cost-effective. In short, don’t slack off—just check regularly.
