|
What works the hardest on my vehicle? |
Tires work harder than any other vehicle component - bearing the load,
cushioning the ride, making it possible to steer, move and stop. |
|
What supports my vehicle on the road? |
The
tire tread makes contact with the road, but the vehicle is supported by
the air inside the tire. Correct inflation (air) pressure is a major
factor in tire safety, tread life, fuel economy and overall vehicle
performance. |
|
How much air should I put in my tires? |
The correct inflation is the number of pounds-per-square-inch (psi) or
air specified by the vehicle manufacturer for tires that are "cold" or
haven't been running for three miles or more. You'll find psi
information on the front, rear, and spare tires on the tire placard or
sticker on the vehicle door jam or in the glove compartment. Load
capacity for this tires is also shown.
The inflation, including that of the spare,
should be checked monthly and before and after long trips. It's normal
for a tire to lose 1 psi per month and 1 psi with each 10 degree drop in
weather temperature. |
| How
can I tell if a tire is properly inflated? |
"Eyeing" a tire doesn't work, especially with radials which, when under
inflated 5 psi or less, tend to "look" alright. You must use a tire
pressure gauge. Gauges built into air pumps at service stations are
often inaccurate because they get so much abuse. You can purchase a
hand-help gauge for as little as $2 for a convenient pocket type or as
much as $20 for a digital model. |
|
What happens when a tire runs under inflated? |
Wear will show on the sides or shoulders of the tire. When severely
under inflated a tire is over loaded, flexes more, develops head
build-up and runs hot which can cause damage and possible failure. Less
sever under inflation results in sluggish handing and response. |
|
What happens when a tire runs over inflated? |
Wear will show on the middle of the tread. Beyond causing the vehicle to
ride harder, over inflation increases stress on the tire, affects
traction and strains the suspension system. |
|
What about checking tires on a long trip? |
Inflation pressure will increase 4 to 8 psi or more when the tire
becomes hot from high speeds and long drives. Never "bleed" or reduce
air pressure when tires are hot. |
| Can
I save money with properly inflated tires? |
You
bet. You will save money in both tires and fuel costs. Tire technology
engineers at Uniroyal Tires report the life expectancy of a tire drops
approximately 25% and fuel efficiency does as well. |
