The Ultimate Guide to Proper Tire Inflation for Beginners

Mr. Ba, the owner of a small delivery truck in Cau Giay, Hanoi, still vividly remembers the fateful day. While transporting a full load of fruit from Long Bien Market to the Old Quarter, his truck tire suddenly burst. It turned out that due to negligence, he hadn’t checked his tire pressure regularly, causing the tire to overinflate and unable to withstand the weight of the goods. Fortunately, the incident caused no injuries, but Mr. Ba had to spend a considerable amount to replace the tire and compensate for the late delivery.

Mr. Ba’s story serves as a wake-up call for many drivers about the importance of proper tire inflation. So, how much air should you put in your tires? Let’s delve into the details with xetaihanoi.edu.vn in this article!

Car Tires – The “Feet” That Need Careful Attention

Car tires are likened to the “feet” of a vehicle, ensuring safe and smooth operation on all roads. Proper tire inflation not only helps extend the life of the tires but also directly affects traction, fuel efficiency, and the safety of you and other road users.

How Much Air Should You Put in Your Car Tires?

The ideal tire pressure depends on several factors, such as:

• Vehicle Type: Car, pickup truck, truck, bus,…
• Tire Size: Specifications printed on the tire sidewall.
• Vehicle Load: Passengers or cargo, heavy or light load.
• Weather Conditions: Hot or cold, rainy or sunny.

You can find the standard tire pressure recommended by the manufacturer on:

• The vehicle owner’s manual.
• A sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.
• The fuel filler door.

Note:

• Tire pressure should be measured when the tires are cold (haven’t been driven for more than a mile or within an hour).
• Use a tire pressure gauge for the most accurate reading.

Underinflated Tires – A Hidden Danger

Many drivers mistakenly believe that underinflated tires provide a smoother ride. However, this is a misconception and poses many safety risks.

• Causes Tire Wear: Underinflation increases the contact area between the tire and the road surface, increasing friction and heat, leading to faster tire wear and potential blowouts.
• Reduces Handling: Underinflated tires make the vehicle feel “floaty” and difficult to control, especially when cornering or braking suddenly.
• Increases Fuel Consumption: Underinflation increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Underinflated tire

Overinflated Tires – A Double-Edged Sword

Conversely, overinflating tires also has serious consequences:

• Reduces Traction: The contact area between the tire and the road surface decreases, making the vehicle prone to skidding and loss of control, especially on slippery roads.
• Damages the Suspension System: Overinflation puts more stress on the suspension system, leading to premature wear and tear.
• Creates an Uncomfortable Ride: The ride becomes harsher and more uncomfortable for passengers.