How often should car tires be inflated?
2 Answers
Regularly (at least once a month) check the air pressure of all tires, including the spare tire, when they are cold. The correct inflation pressure for tires in a cold state should be based on the parameters recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Tire lifespan: The wear lifespan of tires is between 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. If the tires have not reached the wear limit or mileage but have been in use for 5 years or show significant cracks on the sidewalls, they should be replaced. Tire material: The main component of tires is rubber. The maximum storage and anti-aging time for rubber, from natural latex to ethylene propylene and nitrile, does not exceed 10 years. The average service life for various rubber products in use is 3-5 years.
Having driven small cars for twenty years, my experience tells me that checking and inflating the tires once a month is the most reliable approach. Air naturally leaks slowly, especially in summer when higher temperatures cause faster leakage. If you frequently drive on highways, you should be even more diligent. Once, I forgot to check my old car for two months, and the tire pressure dropped below the normal level. On the highway, the steering felt a bit unstable, which was quite dangerous. Now, I’ve developed a habit of asking the car wash attendant to check the tire pressure while washing the car, keeping it at the manufacturer’s recommended value (there’s a label on the door frame). Don’t skimp on this—unstable tire pressure not only wastes fuel but also accelerates tire wear. Also, be careful not to hit bumps too hard, as damage to the tire sidewalls can cause slow leaks. In the long run, saving a bit on fuel is more cost-effective. Remember to keep a small air pump handy for emergencies.
