What is the recommended tire pressure in winter?
2 Answers
Depending on the type of tires, the recommended tire pressure in winter is: for standard tires, it should be between 2.4 to 2.5 bar, while for reinforced tires, it should be between 2.8 to 2.9 bar. The maximum pressure should not exceed 3.5 bar. Tire pressure refers to the air pressure inside the tire, which is like the blood pressure of a car. The level of tire pressure plays a crucial role in the performance and power of the vehicle. Air pressure is the lifeline of a tire; both too high and too low pressure can shorten the tire's lifespan. Insufficient pressure increases tire deformation, leading to cracks on the tire sidewalls, excessive flexing, overheating, rubber degradation, fatigue of the cord fabric, and even cord breakage. It also increases the tire's contact area with the ground, accelerating wear on the tire shoulders.
I remember after driving for so many years, I have to pay extra attention to tire pressure in winter. The recommended pressure from the manufacturer is usually 30-35 PSI, written on the door frame or in the user manual. In cold weather, the pressure drops automatically because the air contracts, roughly losing about 1 PSI for every 10-degree Celsius drop. So, I make it a habit to check at least once a month using a reliable tire pressure gauge, keeping it right within the recommended range. Too low and it risks a blowout or increased fuel consumption, too high and the ride becomes too bumpy, reducing traction which is especially dangerous on icy roads. When switching to winter tires, the pressure also needs to be slightly adjusted higher—don’t overlook this small detail, it saves money and keeps you safe. Developing a routine check habit makes driving much smoother.
