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The US has a wide variety of climates, but generally, weather conditions are cold during the winter and hot in the summer. In southern states, summers are very hot and humid while in the Pacific Northwest, summers are warm with cool mornings and evening conditions. Winter in the South is mild, but in the North conditions are often very cold with lots of snow and below zero temperatures. How do all these variations affect your tires? 

 

The temperature outside has various impacts on your vehicle’s tires. The change in the temperature also causes an equal change in the pressure of your tires; a higher temperature will increase the pressure of your tires. Your tires should be kept inflated based on the specific vehicle manufacturer recommended pressure. Tires are made with both natural and synthetic rubber compounds which contain oils that help with elasticity. The heat from the sun and the friction from the road wear out your tires and reduces the amount of oil and elasticity your tires have. This is what causes your tires to split, crack or become brittle. This can be very dangerous and may lead to unfortunate accidents.

 

Lower temperatures will lower the pressure in your tires. So, when we experience cooler weather conditions, tires will become under-inflated which also makes it dangerous for drivers. Cold fronts and snow cause a drastic drop in the temperature which may lead to hazardous road conditions and makes it unsafe for drivers. Under-inflated tires also increase your fuel usage, create more wear and tear on your tires and may lead to catastrophic blowouts. Most vehicles have a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) which will indicate to drivers their tire pressure needs to be checked. 

 

All tires are also properly marked with a manufacturer date code and most manufacturers recommend tires be replaced 6 years from this date. Even if your tires appear to be in good condition, this may not be the case. Your tire pressure should be checked monthly and all four tires should be in compliance with the manufacturer recommended pressure specifically for the make and model of your vehicle.

 

 

If you’re concerned about the inflation of your tires, visit a qualified tire shop near you as soon as possible for a tire inspection. It’s worth having confidence in one of the most important parts of any vehicle, your tires!