What is the appropriate tire pressure for high-altitude areas?
2 Answers
High-altitude car tire pressure should be between 2.3~2.5. The following is relevant knowledge about car tires: Functions of tires: Car tires are one of the important components of a vehicle, directly contacting the road surface and working together with the suspension system to absorb shocks during driving, ensuring good ride comfort and smoothness; maintaining excellent adhesion between wheels and road surfaces; improving traction, braking, and off-road capability; and bearing the weight of the vehicle. The crucial role tires play in automobiles is increasingly being recognized. Classification of tires: Full-size spare tire: A full-size spare tire has exactly the same specifications as the other four tires on the vehicle and can replace any temporarily or permanently unusable tire. Compact spare tire: This type of spare tire has a slightly smaller diameter and width compared to the other four tires, making it suitable only for temporary replacement, limited to non-driven wheels, and with a maximum speed not exceeding 80km/h.
I just came back from a self-drive trip in Western Sichuan a couple of days ago, and I have some special insights. In high-altitude areas, the air is thin, and tires tend to expand, with tire pressure generally being about 0.3-0.5 bar higher than in plains. For example, my SUV's tire pressure was 2.5 bar on the plains, but it shot up to 2.8 at 3,500 meters above sea level. Don’t panic when this happens—remember to stop immediately and release some air to adjust it back to around 2.5. On the other hand, when descending from the plateau, you need to add some air. Once, I forgot to add air at Zheduo Mountain, and halfway down, the alarm started flashing like crazy, leaving me sweating in panic. Carrying a portable tire pressure gauge is especially important. I make it a habit to check the tire pressure every 100 kilometers.