What is the meaning of the tire pressure marking on car tires?
3 Answers
The tire pressure marking on motor vehicle tires indicates the maximum tire pressure limit that the tire should not exceed, for example, usually not exceeding 340 kPa, which is equivalent to 3.4 bar. Generally, the tire pressure marking on motor vehicle tires is located on the sidewall of the tire. Below is an introduction to tire pressure: Normal tire pressure reference standards: According to the regulations and requirements of the international GBT2978-2008 standard, the standard tire pressure is approximately 2.4-2.5 bar, while reinforced tires are around 2.8-2.9 bar. In winter, it is advisable to slightly increase the tire pressure by about 0.2 bar based on the standard tire pressure, whereas in summer, the tire pressure can generally be set slightly lower than the standard by about 0.1 bar to prevent blowouts due to high temperatures. When the vehicle is unloaded or half-loaded, adjust the tire pressure to the lower limit of the standard; when fully loaded, adjust it to the upper limit. On roads with significant bumps, it is appropriate to reduce the tire pressure by 0.1-0.2 bar from the standard. Hazards of over-inflated tires: Over-inflation reduces the tire's friction and grip, prolonging the braking effect. Additionally, the tire becomes harder, decreasing ride comfort and causing more significant body vibrations, indirectly affecting the lifespan of other components such as the suspension. Under-inflated tires are more prone to blowouts: Tires are more likely to blow out when under-inflated. This is because low tire pressure causes significant deformation of the tire sidewall, and during operation, the sidewall is continuously stretched and compressed. Since the sidewall is relatively weak, it is easily damaged.
After buying a car, I truly started paying attention to the tire pressure markings on the tires. Those numbers and letters printed on the sidewall usually say something like 'Max 35 PSI.' It's quite simple—it indicates the manufacturer's recommended inflation pressure range for the tire when cold, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) or other units like Bar. The key isn’t the maximum value but rather adjusting according to the specific recommendations in the vehicle manual, as the optimal tire pressure varies for different car models and loads. From personal experience, having tire pressure too high or too low is problematic—overinflation leads to uneven wear and reduced grip, while underinflation increases fuel consumption and may even cause a blowout at high speeds. Before daily drives, I make it a habit to check with a tire pressure gauge, especially during seasonal changes or before long trips, ensuring it stays within the recommended range. Safety first—these small details ensure smoother rides and longer tire life. In short, understanding the markings is fundamental, regular maintenance is a must, and don’t just rely on the sidewall data—always refer to the label inside the car or the manual.
As a seasoned driver, I place great importance on the meaning of tire pressure markings. That string of numbers on the sidewall of a tire, such as '220 kPa' or '32 PSI', indicates the maximum safe inflation pressure when the tire is cold, but this is just the upper reference limit. What you should actually use is the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure, usually found on a label inside the driver's door frame or glove compartment. To explain, proper tire pressure improves fuel efficiency and handling stability—too low increases rolling resistance, wasting gasoline; too high causes the center of the tire to wear out faster and increases braking distance. In summer, tires tend to expand, and in winter, they contract, so it's wise to check at least once a month. When I'm carrying a full load of luggage or passengers, I also adjust the tire pressure slightly higher. Remember, the markings are standards, but combining them with actual driving conditions is wiser. Maintenance is simple: buy a tire pressure gauge and check when the tires are cold. These small habits prevent problems before they arise, making every journey safer.
