What’s the Best Tire Pressure for Winter?

When the temperatures drop, did you know your tire pressure can take a nosedive, too? The cold condenses the air in your tires, causing them to deflate more rapidly than a poorly made soufflé. 

As the go-to provider of wheels and tires financing, we at Off-Road Rim Financing know how to keep your wheels in tip-top shape. Keep reading as we discuss the best tire pressure for winter.

Checking Your Tire Pressure

The first step to achieving the best air pressure for winter tires is to test them out first:

• Manual gauges: These handy little contraptions are easy to use and fairly affordable, too. Just remove the valve cap, attach the tool, and voila; don’t forget to replace the caps afterward.
• Digital gauges: Unlike traditional pen or dial models, some have an LED display for easier visibility. It’s a convenient option when stuck in the dim light of a winter’s afternoon. 
• Pressure-checking systems: Built-in sensors in your vehicle can check the tire pressure automatically. When the pressure dips below the ideal range, your car will let you know with a warning light on the dashboard, but it’s still a good idea to manually check it now and then.    

Optimal Winter Tire Inflation

In general, every 10-degree drop in temperature means one pound per square inch of tire pressure lost. That’s why many vehicle manufacturers’ winter tire pressure guidelines recommend operating winter tires 3 to 5 PSI higher than summer or all-season tires.

The best tire pressure for winter depends on various factors like the type of vehicle and the specific tire model, but a good range to aim for is typically between 30 and 35 PSI. Check your vehicle’s owner manual for the precise PSI recommendation.

Why Follow the Recommended Cold Weather Tire Pressure?

Adhering to the ideal tire PSI for winter driving is not just advice you can toss in the back seat; it’s a non-negotiable. Here’s why:

• Safety first: Underinflated tires reduce your vehicle’s traction on slick, icy roads. This makes steering and stopping more difficult. Why risk a fender bender or worse?
• Longevity: When you maintain optimal pressure, you effectively extend the life of your tires. Underinflated tires wear unevenly and faster, and nobody wants to shell out for new rubber before they have to.
• Fuel efficiency: Believe it or not, your gas mileage can also take a hit. Underinflation means higher rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder (and burn more fuel) to keep you moving.
• Comfier rides: Safe tire pressure for cold conditions provides smoother handling, ensuring you can enjoy your winter drive rather than endure it.

Finance Your Winter Tire Upgrade Today

Even the best tire pressure for winter conditions won’t do much for models that lack the right tread design for winter traction. If you’re cruising on summer or worn-out all-season tires, our team at Off-Road Rim Financing has your back.

Call us at (888) 871-2346 today or explore more of our blog to discover how the difference in tire size impacts your driving.