What is the normal range for tire pressure values?
2 Answers
Generally, the normal range for tire pressure values is 2.3-2.5 bar. At this tire pressure, the vehicle can achieve optimal handling and comfort, and the tires can reach their best working condition. The following are the hazards of both underinflated and overinflated tires: Hazards of underinflated tires: When tire pressure is too low, the friction coefficient between the tire and the road surface increases, leading to higher fuel consumption. Underinflation causes greater deformation of the tire body, making the tire sidewalls prone to cracking and generating flexing movements, which results in excessive heat buildup. This accelerates rubber aging, fatigue of the cord layers, and breakage of the cords. It also increases the tire's contact area with the ground, accelerating wear on the tire shoulders. Additionally, it makes the steering wheel heavier, prone to drifting, reduces handling performance, and increases tire noise. Hazards of overinflated tires: Overinflation reduces the tire's friction and adhesion, affecting braking performance. It can cause the steering wheel to shake or drift, reducing driving comfort. It accelerates wear on the tire tread patterns and makes the tires more susceptible to bulging or trapping stones. Overinflation also causes excessive stretching and deformation of the tire cords, reducing the tire's elasticity and increasing the impact and noise during driving. Moreover, when encountering sharp objects like nails or glass on the road, the tires are more likely to be punctured, leading to blowouts.
Regarding the normal range for tire pressure, I have to say that most sedans are best kept between 30 and 35 psi, which is roughly equivalent to 2.0 to 2.5 bar. However, I often remind my friends not to just focus on the numbers—the specific value for each car is usually posted on the driver's side door frame or inside the glove compartment, and it's also clearly marked in the owner's manual. Forgetting to check can easily lead to trouble. For example, too low pressure increases rolling resistance, causing fuel consumption to spike and leading to overheating and accelerated tire wear. On the other hand, too high pressure makes handling stiffer and affects braking distance. I recommend checking it every two weeks, especially during seasonal changes when temperature fluctuations can cause tire pressure to vary by about 5%. Keeping a digital tire pressure gauge in the car is simple and accurate. Proper tire pressure not only saves money and ensures safety but also makes the ride more comfortable and stable. With proper maintenance, tires can last several more years.
