Why Does Tire Pressure Increase While Driving?
4 Answers
Tire pressure increases while driving primarily due to the expansion of gas inside the tires during operation. Below is an expanded explanation of tire pressure: 1. Generally, the normal tire pressure should be based on the manufacturer's recommended value. 2. The standard tire pressure depends on the type of tire and the vehicle model. Different models have varying weights, heights, and tire sizes, each requiring different tire pressures. Standard tires typically have a pressure of 240kpa-250kpa, while reinforced tires have a pressure of 280kpa-290kpa. 3. Additionally, tire pressure differs between cold and hot tires, with hot tires having about 20kpa higher pressure than cold ones. The manufacturer's recommended value refers to the cold tire pressure, which is usually around 230kpa-250kpa when the vehicle is cold. However, the specific tire pressure should always be based on the value indicated for each individual vehicle.
I noticed that tire pressure increases while driving, primarily due to heat generated from tire friction causing the air inside to expand when heated. It's similar to how a balloon inflates under warm air—during high-speed driving, increased friction accelerates heat buildup, leading to faster tire pressure rise, especially in summer heat or after long-distance travel where pressure may increase by over 0.3 bar. Although this is a normal physical phenomenon, excessively high tire pressure raises the risk of tire blowouts and compromises grip and braking performance. Therefore, I always recommend checking tire pressure when the car is cold, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended values, and avoiding immediate deflation after aggressive driving in hot weather. Paying attention to such details can extend tire lifespan and reduce unexpected incidents.
After driving for so many years, I've personally experienced the situation where tire pressure increases while driving many times. In winter, the car sits overnight and the tire pressure drops, but as soon as you start driving, the heat from friction causes the air to expand, and the numbers immediately go up. It's not surprising—friction generates heat. However, if it gets too high, the tires are prone to bulging, and it can even affect handling, such as making turns unstable. I remember once driving on the highway when the tire pressure shot up from 2.4 to 2.7, so I quickly pulled over to let it cool down before continuing. Now, I've developed a good habit: checking the cold tire pressure before starting in the morning, adjusting it to the right level, and carrying a portable tire pressure gauge to monitor it anytime.
Increased tire pressure stems from thermal expansion of air due to driving friction, which is a safety hazard I take very seriously. Excessive pressure reduces tire elasticity and raises the risk of blowouts, particularly during sudden braking or on bumpy roads. I always check cold tire pressure before driving to ensure it's not overloaded. If I notice excessive tire pressure while driving, I recommend slowing down and stopping to allow for cooling. Regular maintenance, such as monthly pressure checks, can prevent problem accumulation.
