How important is tire pressure monitoring?

The photo is taken from the site: http://multitek-ltd.com

Often, car owners, buying new wheels once again and being amazed at their cost, ask — what should be done to make their service life as long as possible, and not have to change them so often?

There is a counter question: do they often check the air pressure in the tires of the car? Maintaining normal internal pressure is the most serious step in taking care of rubber. Maintaining it is the prevention of uneven tire wear.

We will try to explain as clearly as possible why it is important to constantly monitor tire pressure in a passenger car or truck, as well as what consequences you can expect if you do not follow it closely enough.

Pressure monitoring

Small precautions will help to save tires. In addition, the car will drive more steadily. If the tires are pumped up completely in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, the probability of deformation of the side parts of the rubber, as well as the wear of the tread pattern, is significantly reduced.

Therefore, it is worth considering in more detail the question: "What pressure should be in the tires?"

So, for example, the Porsche company asks for almost all of its models to set the pressure in the front and rear tires equal to 2.5 atmospheres. For some models, it is indicated that the rear wheels should have an internal pressure of 0.5 more. In front and rear tires on Volvo cars, it can range from 1.9 to 2.4.

To determine exactly what pressure should be in the wheels of your car, you should look at the data for your particular brand of car. For example, Volkswagen cars have an internal tire voltage starting from 1.7 and ending with 3. And we have already talked about the consequences of incorrect pressure above.

If the tires are not looked after well enough, then a variety of troubles may appear. Due to improper air distribution, the coupling properties of the wheel deteriorate. The rubber will wear out earlier than expected, and you will need to change it.

The pressure should be periodically checked and optimized, if necessary. Everyone knows that during operation it gradually decreases. Depending on the time of year, it may be faster (in winter in frosts) or slower (in summer when it is warm), but this process does not stop and it needs to be controlled. Also, if the driver inadvertently drove the car through the pit, the pressure may drop sharply.

I would like to note once again that tire pressure should be monitored in the same way as the amount of fuel. Many gas stations have special installations with which you can pump up the wheels. During the seasonal re-sorting, such a service should be included in the set of works. If it is not included in the list of services provided, then do it yourself. Also remember about the spare wheel — it must be maintained in working condition so that in case of a sudden need you can use a full-fledged spare wheel.

Consequences of tire pressure violations

So, what can the wrong tire pressure in a truck or passenger transport lead to?

If the pressure level is not optimal, then the area of contact between the tire and the cover decreases, which can lead to big trouble.

There are two options: excessive pressure and insufficient one.

Excessive pressure can affect:

• Increased wear of the suspension and tread in its central part;
• Lowering the damping function of the tire. Also, when driving, there is a "bouncing" and stiffness;
• Increasing the likelihood of tire damage when hitting an obstacle or pit;
• Reduced handling, due to a decrease in the clutch area. Especially the grip decreases in winter, so inflated tires increase the likelihood of an accident. This is the reason why it is important to maintain the tire pressure in winter at a certain level.

Insufficient tire pressure is even scarier.

It can lead to:

• Serious deformation of the tire, which can cause it to collapse during driving;
• An increase in air temperature, and as a result of the stratification of the base — the "explosion" of the tire;
• Increased wear of the tread shoulder areas;
• Increased risk of aquaplaning;
• Disassembling tires on turns;
• An increase in the fuel burned, and as a result, large financial costs.

The reduced pressure is also reflected in the motorist's wallet: a 20% drop in air pressure reduces the operating period of the tire by 25-30% and increases fuel costs by about 3%.

Basic rules for maintaining normal air pressure:

You need to use a car compressor or check with a stationary compressor at gas stations. Before measuring, make sure that the tire is not hot. An increase in pressure when driving a car is absolutely normal, so you should not immediately "blow off" the wheels. The recommended voltage is prescribed by the manufacturers of cars and tires. Often, low-profile or high-profile wheels are installed on the car. In this case, it is necessary to maintain the pressure specified by the manufacturer. When using a car, the pressure level may decrease, so check the wheels regularly. Do this weekly and before long trips. Now you know why it is so important that the tire pressure is always correct, so do not forget to carefully monitor it. Have a nice trip!