Is 2.3bar or 2.5bar better for tire pressure?
4 Answers
Generally, the normal tire pressure range for cars is 2.4-2.5bar. Due to seasonal factors, tire pressure can be appropriately increased by 0.2bar in winter and reduced by 0.1bar in summer. This data is based on the international GBT2978-2008 standard. Generally, tire pressure above 2.8bar is considered too high, and tire pressure below 2.0bar is considered too low. Hazards of overinflated tires: Reduced tire friction and adhesion, affecting braking performance; causes steering wheel vibration and deviation, reducing driving comfort; accelerates uneven wear of the central tread pattern, shortening tire lifespan; increases vehicle vibration, indirectly affecting the lifespan of other components; causes excessive stretching deformation of tire cords, reducing tire elasticity and increasing the load on the vehicle during driving. Hazards of underinflated tires: Increases friction coefficient with the road surface, leading to higher fuel consumption; makes the steering wheel heavy and prone to deviation, posing safety risks; increases movement of various tire parts, causing abnormal heat due to excessive rolling; reduces the functionality of cords and rubber, leading to delamination or cord breakage and excessive friction with the rim, causing damage to the bead area and abnormal wear; multiplies friction between the tire and the ground, rapidly increasing tire temperature, softening the tire, and drastically reducing its strength. High-speed driving may lead to tire blowouts.
From a safety perspective, I believe tire pressure settings depend on personal habits and vehicle type. Both 2.3bar and 2.5bar are acceptable, but the key is not to exceed the recommended range. Insufficient tire pressure may increase the risk of blowouts and affect braking performance; excessive pressure makes handling stiff and increases the likelihood of skidding. For my older family car, I maintain tire pressure around 2.4bar as it balances stability and comfort. I recommend first checking the label on the door frame or the owner's manual - most vehicles recommend values between 2.2 and 2.6bar. Higher pressure might save some fuel but accelerates tire wear; too low increases fuel consumption and damages the chassis. Regular tire pressure checks are essential, especially before long trips. Just use a simple pressure gauge for peace of mind - don't skip this important step.
From an economic perspective, I think 2.5 bar might be slightly better, but it depends on daily driving conditions. Higher tire pressure means lower rolling resistance, which can save some fuel—around 0.1 to 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers. Over time, that adds up to significant savings. For city commuting, 2.5 bar ensures more even tire contact and slower wear. Having driven a taxi for several years, I’ve noticed that slightly higher pressure extends tire life, which is a major expense. However, too high is uncomfortable and harsh; 2.3 bar is softer but consumes more fuel and increases the risk of punctures or leaks. Seasonal changes matter—reduce pressure slightly in summer due to heat expansion, and increase it in cold winters. Always refer to the vehicle manual rather than guessing. A portable air pump makes adjustments easy.
In terms of comfort, there isn't much difference between 2.3bar and 2.5bar. A lower tire pressure, such as 2.3bar, provides better shock absorption while driving, resulting in less bumpiness on rough roads and a more stable ride for passengers. When I take my kids out, I prefer softer tire pressure to reduce the likelihood of motion sickness. However, higher tire pressure like 2.5bar offers more precise handling and prevents the car from swaying during high-speed turns. The key is to find a balance—don't sacrifice safety for comfort. It's recommended to check the tire pressure monthly with a gauge to ensure there's no deformation or air leakage.
