What Should the Tire Pressure Be in Winter?
2 Answers
In winter, the appropriate tire pressure for cars is between 2.2 and 2.4 bar. Tire pressure refers to the air pressure inside the tires, and the level of tire pressure plays a significant role in the performance and power of the vehicle. Methods to check tire pressure include: 1. Using instruments to measure tire pressure; 2. Visual inspection method; 3. Consulting staff at a 4S store. The impacts of low tire pressure are: 1. Affects driving: increases the contact area between the tires and the ground, making the steering wheel heavier and affecting driving; 2. Increases the risk of tire blowouts: tires are more prone to overheating, leading to blowouts; 3. Accelerates tire wear: enlarges the tire body, making it easier for cracks to appear on the inner and outer sides of the tire, speeding up rubber aging and increasing tire wear.
I've got some experience with winter tire pressure. Generally, it should be a bit higher than in summer because the cold temperature naturally reduces tire pressure. I remember last winter when my car suddenly felt unstable while steering, and upon checking, the tire pressure was too low—only around 25 PSI. Since then, I've made it a habit to check with a simple tire pressure gauge every month, aiming to keep it at the manufacturer's recommended value, usually listed on the door label. My car recommends 32-35 PSI, and I prefer to set it at 35 PSI for better traction on icy and snowy roads, reducing slippage and even saving a bit on fuel. Also, uneven tire pressure can affect balance, so it's important to check each tire thoroughly. Before driving in winter, especially in the morning after the car has been parked overnight, checking the tire pressure is most accurate—it helps avoid issues on the road.
