What is the appropriate tire pressure in winter?
3 Answers
Tire pressure in winter for front tires: 2.2bar--2.3bar; rear tires: 2.4bar--2.5bar. If the rear seats are fully occupied with three people and the trunk is also fully loaded, the rear tire pressure can be increased up to 2.8bar. Methods to check tire pressure: Direct TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System): The TPMS device uses pressure sensors in each tire to directly measure the tire pressure and transmits the pressure information wirelessly from inside the tire to a central receiver module. Indirect TPMS: The working principle of indirect TPMS is that when the pressure in a tire decreases, the vehicle's weight causes the rolling radius of that wheel to become smaller, resulting in a faster rotation speed compared to the other wheels. Other methods explained: Tire Intelligent Monitoring System (TPMS): Equips direct sensors in two diagonally opposite tires and uses a 4-wheel indirect system. Compared to using a full direct system, this hybrid system can reduce costs.
I've been driving for over ten years and always pay extra attention to tire pressure when winter comes. Generally, winter tire pressure should be slightly higher than in summer because low temperatures naturally cause tire pressure to drop. The exact recommended value depends on your vehicle's specifications, usually found on the door frame sticker or in the manual. For example, my SUV recommends a cold tire pressure of 32-35 psi, so in winter I inflate to around 34-37 psi. Remember, for every 10-degree temperature drop, tire pressure can decrease by about 1 psi. If it's too low, it can lead to uneven tire wear, increased fuel consumption, or even the risk of a blowout. I recommend buying a good tire pressure gauge before winter and checking it once in the morning before heading out to maintain consistency. Additionally, slightly higher tire pressure in snowy conditions can improve traction, but don't overinflate, as it may reduce comfort. If you're unsure, you can always get a free check at the dealership for peace of mind.
As someone who frequently maintains my own car, I've found that winter tire pressure adjustment hinges on precise monitoring. First, refer to the vehicle's standard values—usually found on the B-pillar sticker, typically 30-33 psi for regular sedans, and increase it by 2-3 psi in winter. The reason is simple: cold air is denser, causing tire pressure to drop more easily; too low pressure can affect steering responsiveness. I make it a habit to check with a digital tire gauge weekly to ensure all four tires are consistent. When driving in snow, it's safer to stay within the upper limit of the recommended range, but don't exceed 10% to avoid compromising handling. Also, inspect tires for cracks or wear, as harsh winter conditions can worsen these issues. Proper tire pressure maintenance saves fuel and extends tire life. If unsure, take a photo of the door label and consult a professional technician for guidance on fine-tuning.
