In order to get my driver’s license when I turned 16, I not only had to pass the state’s driving test, but I also had to demonstrate my mastery of basic car maintenance tasks, as determined by my parents. This included checking my tire pressure, something I was instructed to do at least once a month during the winter months. Here’s the reasoning behind that recommendation, and the best time of day to check your tire pressure.
What can happen to tire pressure in the winter?
When tires lose smaller amounts of air pressure in cold weather, it isn’t a sign that they’re leaking. Air contracts as it cools, so as temperatures drop, the air inside your tires becomes denser—taking up less space, and ultimately, losing air pressure.
Generally speaking, for every 10° F drop in temperature, your tires will lose one or two pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure. This is often enough to trigger your tire pressure monitoring system (TPSM) light, even though the loss in pressure may not be visible, and if your tires were fully inflated to start with, you probably won’t notice it while driving.
When should you check your tire pressure in the winter?
Most tire experts recommend checking out tire pressure once a month during the winter—though some suggest doing it every two weeks, or after any sudden, significant drops in temperature. Your best bet is to check your tire pressure in the morning, before driving anywhere. If that’s not an option, be sure to let the car sit for at least three hours after driving it in order to get an accurate reading.
It’s not enough to check the pressure on a single tire: They may have lost pressure at different levels, so it’s important to check all four tires, as well as your spare, if you have one. And as always, when in doubt, consult your owner’s manual for more information on tire maintenance in cold weather.
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