Tire Pressures

The air inside the tyre may not seem important, but it is one of the primary factors in keeping your car moving. The pressure inside the tyres supports the full weight and load of the vehicle whilst keeping it moving safely.

Many important factors of driving are affected by tyre pressure. This includes balance and stability of the vehicle, driving comfort, braking force and brake balance as well as the overall cornering ability. If the tyre pressure is not correct against the recommended values, then one or more of these factors shall be affected and could result in serious issues whilst driving. It is extremely important to measure and maintain correct tyre pressure.

Most vehicles have specified tyre pressures. This is formed from an agreement between vehicle manufacturers and tyre companies. This is why certain tyre brands are recommended for specific cars. Newer models of cars usually have the recommended tyre pressure listed in the driver door section or the vehicle manual. Tyre pressure data is given in psi (Pounds per Square Inch) or Bar (Barometric Pressure), depending on location.

Tyres should always be checked for pressure when cold. When tyres are rolling, friction is generated and they become hot, and temperature and air pressures both fluctuate.

Fleet management organisations should check and maintain the tyre pressure for the safety-critical function of their vehicles. Not only this, correct tyre pressures allow optimum fuel efficiency of the vehicle, and a simple check can save fuel costs. Telematics devices send tyre pressure over the air via mobile data networks. With tyre pressure monitors built into each wheel. If the correct tyre pressure is not maintained, the balance and handling of a car will also be greatly affected.