Keeping the correct air pressure in your tires is important to extend the life of your tires, maintain good gas mileage, and it also helps your car handle better and safer. On newer cars, the recommended tire pressure is typically listed on a sticker right inside the driver’s door jam. If there’s no sticker, the next place you should check is the owner’s manual.
Like many people, you might forget to check on your tires until the TPMS light comes on, or if something else goes wrong with your vehicle. However, our Birmingham car dealership encourages you to inspect your tire pressure at least once a month, since tires lose pressure regularly.
In cold weather, a tire will usually lose one or two pounds of air per month. In warm weather, tires lose even more air. You should also check on your tires if you strike a curb, or if you run over a sharp object, like a nail, that can puncture the rubber.
For the most accurate tire pressure reading, make sure the car has been sitting overnight or has been parked for at least a few hours. You should always check the air pressure when your tires are cold because the friction between them and the road generates heat, increasing both the temperature and the air pressure. It’s also important to inspect your tire’s psi with a quality gauge, and to keep in mind that gas station air compressors can sometimes be faulty.
If you find that your vehicle’s tire has a slow leak or is drastically losing air, it’s likely time to receive a tire replacement. Luckily, you’ll be able to count on our Pelham service center near Birmingham to install the high-quality tires your car needs.
For more information, or to schedule tire service, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our service department at (205) 271-6738.