Do you regularly monitor your Yakima vehicle’s tire pressure and make it a habit to check it before each trip? Maintaining the manufacturer-recommended tire pressure is a simple and cost-effective way to reduce the frequency of tire replacement and blowouts. How does proper inflation extend tire life?
Proper Inflation Prevents Uneven Tire Wear
Excess tire wear on the edges from underinflation, or in the center from overinflation, indicates that your tires have been maintained at the wrong pressure for too long. Keeping your vehicle’s tires dialed in to the proper pressure ensures even weight distribution across the entire tire surface, extending tire lifespan and delivering improved braking and handling performance. Likewise, routine vehicle alignments ensure that the wheels and tires are angled correctly, allowing them to roll freely and facilitating even tread wear.
Proper Tire Pressure Decreases the Risk of Blowouts
When tires are over- or under-inflated, and pressure is not evenly distributed across the tire surface, increased pressure and friction can cause uneven wear and blowouts. Proper pressure ensures your tires retain their original shape, reducing structural stress. Sidewalls retain their shape without bowing out or puncturing due to overheating and softness caused by underinflation. Conversely, roadway impacts from debris, bumps, potholes, and curbs can be absorbed without causing excessive strain and blowouts from overinflation.
Reduced Friction Improves Fuel Economy
Soft, underinflated, or deformed tires cause increased friction. Optimal tire inflation helps tires maintain their shape and reduces rolling resistance. This makes it easier for the engine to propel your vehicle, maximizing energy transfer and reducing the fuel required for operation.
Ensure Well-Maintained Tires
Improve safety and save on auto maintenance costs with these tips on how proper inflation extends tire life from RJ’s Tire Pros & Auto Experts, Yakima’s trusted provider of fast, affordable home and personal vehicle services. Contact us at 509-453-8170 to schedule tire repair, replacement, rotation, or alignment today.