Should Tyre Pressure Be Higher In Winter?

How do you get your tyres ready for winter?

When winter’s chill sets in, many drivers wonder if they should adjust their tyre pressure to cope with the changing weather conditions.

In this article, we’ll delve into this topic and provide you with insights into whether increasing your tyre pressure is a wise choice during the colder seasons.

Why Adjusting Tyre Pressure Matters

The need to keep your tyres properly inflated is important. Your vehicle’s tyres are its point of contact with the road, and their pressure directly affects performance, safety, and fuel efficiency.

As the temperature drops in winter, the physical properties of air change; it becomes less dense. This means that your tyres are prone to losing pressure, typically up to 1 PSI for every 5 degrees Celsius drop in temperature.

Should You Increase Tyre Pressure In Winter?

The answer is yes, in most cases. By increasing the pressure in your tyres during the colder months, you can enhance their performance in winter conditions.

How Much Higher Should You Set Your Tyre Pressure?

The exact amount to increase your tyre pressure will vary based on your specific vehicle and the type of tyres you’re using.

Nevertheless, a useful rule of thumb is to add 2-3 PSI to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This additional pressure compensates for the loss caused by the lower temperatures and ensures that your tyres remain in optimal condition.

Benefits Of Adjusting Tyre Pressure For Winter Driving

Increased Traction

When your tyres are correctly inflated, they provide a proper contact area with the road surface. This increased contact leads to improved traction, which is absolutely crucial in slippery and hazardous winter conditions.

Proper tyre pressure ensures that your vehicle can grip the road securely, reducing the likelihood of skidding and accidents.

Better Handling

Properly inflated tyres are less prone to rolling over on icy or snow-covered roads. This fact is pivotal for your safety, as it grants you better control over your vehicle.

Better control helps reduce the chance of accidents and makes it easier to drive on slippery winter roads.

Reduced Wear And Tear

When your tyres are underinflated, they tend to flex more. This increased flexing can lead to premature wear and tear. However, by boosting the pressure in your tyres, you can mitigate this problem.

Ensuring that your tyres are properly inflated during the winter season reduces the likelihood of costly damage, prolonging their lifespan.

Conclusion

Setting your tyre pressure higher in winter is a proactive measure that contributes to your safety and the longevity of your tyres.

Ultimately, maintaining proper tyre pressure year-round is essential for your security and your vehicle’s performance, regardless of the season.

Stay safe on the winter roads!