What is the normal range for tire pressure on highways?
2 Answers
Generally, a car's tire pressure should be maintained around 220-260Kpa. Before driving on highways, it is advisable to inflate the tires to around 250 or 260Kpa. Low tire pressure: It ensures an increased contact area between the car tires and the ground, thereby enhancing friction. However, prolonged low pressure can cause wear on both sides of the tire and also increase the risk of a blowout. High tire pressure: It reduces the contact area between the car and the ground, decreasing friction and increasing wear on the central part of the tire, which shortens the tire's lifespan. High tire pressure also places additional strain on various car systems, reducing the overall lifespan of the vehicle.
As a seasoned long-distance driver, I think highway tire pressure is really important. The normal range is between 35 to 45 PSI, but it definitely depends on your specific car model. There's a small label on my car door frame that says 38 PSI for highway driving, which is the standard for many vehicles. Low tire pressure on highways can cause tires to heat up quickly from friction, significantly increasing the risk of a blowout; too high pressure makes the ride bumpy and uncomfortable, and wears out the tires faster. I once had a close call on the highway due to low tire pressure that I hadn't noticed, so now I make it a habit to check cold tire pressure before every trip—using a simple tire pressure gauge when the tires are cool gives the most accurate reading. And don't forget about the spare tire; breaking down on the highway is no joke, so make sure the spare is inflated to the manual's specifications too. Regular checks ensure safety and save money, so I recommend taking two minutes to check before hitting the highway.
