When you’re out driving on the roads in Oswego, IL, then you know how important having good tire pressure is during winter, because your tires control many factors on the road. Here are four specific reasons why you should always check the pressure in your tires.
1. Proper tire pressure equals better safety.
If your tires need air, they won't create good traction at high speeds. Without traction, it's very easy to lose control of a vehicle. Properly inflated tires improve safety because they provide a better grip.
2. Good air pressure improves performance.
If you don't check the tire pressure, your wheels will wear out quicker and unevenly. Worn tires have poor performance qualities. They will:
- Produce annoying sounds
- Create vibrations
- Make every ride bumpy and uncomfortable
3. Good Air Pressure Enhances Roll Resistance
Roll resistance is energy that spins a tire, and it is an important factor for good fuel economy. A typical pickup truck with proper tire pressure gets approximately 15 miles per gallon, which is a 3% improvement.
4. You'll Have a Stronger Defense Against Rollovers
When a tire needs air or has too much air, it will heat up much faster. If a tire gets extremely hot, heat will flex its sidewall, and this will cause tread separation and a possible rollover at high speeds.
If you learn the ropes of tire maintenance, you'll have peace of mind. Here are very important factors that you must consider.
How to Get the Right Tire Pressure
All automobile manufacturers have guidelines for tire pressure. You can find this information in your owner's manual, in the door jam on the driver's side, or in the glovebox.
If there is no label in any of these locations, contact Coffman GMC. We can help!
What You Should Do When the Warning Icon Lights Up
Today's vehicles have a tire pressure indicator. It lights up when it detects a problem. The warning light is shaped like a U. Some systems will have additional options that are accessible via a menu. They can sense which tires are down and how much air a certain tire needs.
A tire pressure indicator can make mistakes. If it lights up and shuts off, you should still check your tires just to be safe.
How to Check Your Tire Pressure
If you visit a local auto parts store, you can buy a tire pressure gauge. To get a reading, remove the valve cover on the tire. Then, place the end of the gauge on the nozzle and apply pressure. You'll hear a slight wind gust before the gauge provides the reading.
To get the most accurate reading, you'll need a digital gauge instead of a traditional gauge. A digital gauge costs more, but it's a great investment.
If your tires aren’t holding the proper amount of air to ensure you have a safe drive, then it might be time for some new tires. If you need tires, stop by Coffman GMC. We sell tires by Bridgestone, Michelin, and other top brands.
630-518-4217
