Vehicle Safety: Tire Pressure Edition
As the cold temperatures keep rolling it, you might notice a difference in your vehicle’s tire pressure. Colder temperatures cause the air in your tires to contract. A change of 5 degrees Celsius can cause a difference in 1psi in tire pressure. If you have a tire pressure alert system, this means that it could be telling you that your tires are deflated during the colder months.
What does this mean?
If your vehicle’s tires aren’t properly inflated, then they will not grip the pavement efficiently. Under-inflated tires will begin to bend at the sides, and the heat accumulated while driving will distribute unevenly across the tire. This can cause damage to the tire, and puts you at danger of having a traffic accident. Driving a vehicle with one tire under-inflated by 8psi can reduce the life span of the tire by 15,000 kms.
What can you do?
It is a good idea to check your tire pressure once a month. For the most accurate readings, check the tire pressure in the morning, when the tires are cool. If you check your tires’ air pressure after you have been driving, the readings will not be as accurate due to the heat created in the tire from the friction against the road. Your tires should always be filled to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation level. This is typically listed on a sticker on the driver’s doorframe.
Looking for more vehicle safety tips?
- Click here to learn about winter tires!
- Click here to learn about making a vehicle emergency kit!
- Click here to learn about HondaLink Assist!
- Click here to learn about distracted driving!
If you have any questions about your vehicle’s tires, click here to contact us!
If you would like to book a Service appointment, click here!
Don’t forget; if your Honda has a recall, please do not book a Service appointment to correct it online! Please call 613-237-2777 to book your recall appointment!