I've already
posted that maintaining
properly inflated tires is one of the easiest ways to improve your gas mileage, no matter what you're driving, but this
press release from the
Rubber Manufacturers Association suggests that maybe some instruction is in order. If
you're not sure exactly how to work the tire pressure gague that you picked up from the gas station, here are some
tips:
- Check your tire pressure before you drive your car. Driving makes your tires inflate, so
if you've driven even a mile, you'll get an inaccurate reading. If you have to drive to get air, record your tire
pressure before you drive to the station and add the appropriate amount. To make sure that you added the correct amount
of air, check again the next morning.
- The correct tire pressure is not the one that's on the tire's
sidewall! Use your car's manufacturer's recommended tire inflation. You can usually find the proper inflation pressure
on a sticker on one of your car's windows. If it's not there, check your owner's manual.
- Don't neglect
your spare. If your spare tire is not properly inflated, then it won't do you any good if you need it.
- Make sure to check your tire pressure at least once per month. Once every oil change isn't enough. Make it a habit
that you connect with something, whether you check your pressure every time you wash your car, make a car payment, or
fill the tank.
- Visually inspect your tires when you inflate them to check for signs of wear.
- Have your tires rotated every 6,000 miles. If you don't they'll wear unevenly and require replacement
sooner.
This week is the fifth annual Tire Safety Week, so celebrate by steering yourself down the path
toward safe, properly inflated tires. [Source: Rubber Manufacturers Association]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Donnie 9:30AM (4/26/2006)
I filled my tires to max pressure so to keep my tires rounder as I'm driving like the Honda Insight.
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the friendly grizzly 10:03AM (12/25/2006)
I look at the rated maximum sidewall pressure, then go two to four pounds under that maximum. I get even tire wear, handling is improved, etc.
My Chevy truck came with tires rated at 44 lbs max, the door sticker says 35 psi. That's DARN low, and in the eyes of one of the tire making groups, constitutes a run-flat tire pressure.
I did the same with my Intrepid and my two Acclaims. Always got even wear. And maybe it is my driving habits, I don't know, but... I manage to meet or exceed the EPA mileage figures everyone says are optimistic. 22 mpg out of a truck rated at 20 is pretty decent, and I am not exactly a slowpoke.
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