What is the appropriate tire pressure for sedans in winter?
2 Answers
Car tire pressure in winter should be determined based on the specific conditions of your vehicle. The standard tire pressure for vehicles in winter is: front tires at 2.2-2.3 bar and rear tires at 2.4-2.5 bar. Seasonal factors: Winter: Adjust the standard tire pressure of the car tires appropriately by increasing it by about 0.2 bar. Summer: Follow the lower limit of the standard tire pressure for car tires. Load factors: Empty or half-loaded: Follow the lower limit of the standard tire pressure for car tires (the tire pressure indicated on the vehicle's sticker can serve as a reference for the minimum tire pressure). Fully loaded: When fully loaded, follow the upper limit of the standard tire pressure for car tires (the maximum tire pressure indicated on the tire can serve as a reference for the theoretical maximum tire pressure).
My over ten years of driving experience tells you that maintaining tire pressure for sedans in winter is no trivial matter. As temperatures drop, air volume contracts, naturally reducing tire pressure, which worsens grip and increases the risk of skidding. Most automakers recommend keeping it slightly above the standard pressure—for instance, if it's 30 to 35 PSI in summer, aim for around 32 to 35 in winter, with exact figures depending on the label on your door frame or the owner's manual. Don’t assume higher is always better; overinflation makes tires stiff, leading to a bumpy ride, while underinflation increases fuel consumption, accelerates tire wear, and poses safety risks. I always check with a tire gauge before setting off to ensure it’s within the normal range—only then can I drive confidently on icy roads.
