Proper Tire Inflation Critical For Winter Driving

With the arrival of winter, drivers face a number of maintenance challenges, such as frozen gas lines, stalling engines and frozen door locks. With all of these seasonal frustrations to deal with, drivers often overlook one important issue: proper tire inflation. Proper tire inflation is especially relevant in winter given that it has a significant impact on vehicle handling.

Monitoring tire pressure levels is as important in the winter months as it is throughout the rest of the year. Temperature swings, common across Canada during the fall and winter months, result in significant changes in tire pressure. For every five degree (Celsius) drop in temperature, tire pressure drops one psi (about 7 kPa). If, for example, the temperature were to drop 15° C, tires would lose three psi (about 21 kPa). For some tires this would result in them being approximately ten per cent under-inflated.

"There is a common misconception among car owners that tire inflation is a hot weather problem, but that's not the case," said Glenn Maidment, president of The Rubber Association of Canada. "By maintaining proper tire inflation consumers can save money at the pumps, reduce emissions and most importantly, increase the safety of their vehicles."

Proper tire pressure is critical for safe driving and fuel efficiency, but many vehicles operate with improperly inflated tires. A recent study commissioned by The Rubber Association of Canada and the Government of Canada found that 70% of vehicles on the road in Canada have at least one tire that is improperly inflated.

Improperly inflated tires cause handling problems, including poor or delayed braking, steering and acceleration. Over-inflated tires result in reduced grip on the road which leads to a harsh ride and increased wear on tires and suspension components.

With proper tire maintenance, vehicles operate more efficiently, saving the average driver two weeks worth of gas a year while reducing emissions that contribute to climate change and other environmental problems.

"Be Tire Smart" and measure your tire pressure once a month-a simple maintenance habit that is important year-round.

Five Simple Tire Maintenance Tips:
  1. Measure your tire pressure once per month, all year-round.
  2. Use a good quality tire gauge, even if you have a tire pressure monitoring system. A visual check is not effective.
  3. Measure your tire pressure when tires are "cold", meaning they have been stationary for three hours or have not been driven more than two kilometers.
  4. The correct tire pressure is listed on the vehicle placard. Check the owner's manual for the placard's location.
  5. Have your tires maintained regularly, including tire rotation, balancing and alignment.
Contact: Anne Scott, Tel: 416-598-0055 x.267