Did you know that your tire pressure affects your gas mileage? If you didn't, I'm telling you now, it does! It is very important to properly maintain our vehicles. Tire pressure may seem like a small thing, but maintaining the correct tire pressure will prevent uneven wear to your tires, maximize your gas mileage and prevent low-pressure (or high-pressure) blow-outs.
It's easy to check your tire pressure. You only need a tire gauge to do the checking (they usually only cost a couple dollars at the auto parts store, or in the auto section of department stores). Now, if you find your tire is a little low, then you'll need access to an air compressor. Many gas stations offer free air, or air for a quarter or two. On the side wall of your tire, you can read the ideal tire pressure for your tire.
Once you locate the recommended tire pressure (mine is 44psi) then you can check the tire. Remove the valve stem cap (you know, the little-bitty-easy-to-lose cap?) and fit your tire gauge onto the valve stem. If you're pressure reads lower than recommended, then you know it's time to add air. If it reads high, you may need to let a little out.
In case you're wondering, I did have a tire shop overfill my tires once, so I usually check my tires within a day or two of going to have my tires rotated and balanced.
Oh, one last thing! The optimal time for checking your the air pressure in your tires is in the morning when it's a little cool, and before you've driven your car. The recommended psi is based on the "cool" temperature side of things.
What automotive care and maintenance topic would you like to know more about?
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