Understanding the Basics of Tire Pressure

You know, tire pressure might not seem like a big deal. It's just air in a tire, right? But, let's think about this for a minute. The pressure of your vehicle's tires affects everything from gas mileage to handling and safety. That's why we're having this little chat. It's important, and we at Sartorial Auto Repairs want you to understand why.

Why Tire Pressure Matters

To put it simply, properly inflated tires lead to better gas mileage. When tires are under-inflated, your vehicle's engine has to work harder to move the car. This extra effort means you're burning more fuel. Over time, that adds up to a lot of wasted gas and money.

Consider this example: Let's say you're driving a typical sedan and your tire pressure is 5 PSI (pounds per square inch) below the recommended level. That under-inflation could reduce your gas mileage by around 2%. Now, that might not sound like much, but with gas prices as they are, it could cost you an extra $50 or more per year.

On the other hand, tires that are over-inflated make less contact with the road, which can reduce your vehicle's grip and increase stopping distances. Both under-inflation and over-inflation can also cause uneven tire wear, leading to shorter tire lifespan and potentially dangerous blowouts.

Proper Tire Pressure Maintenance

It's clear then, that maintaining proper tire pressure is essential. But how do you do that? Good news – it's actually pretty straightforward.

You should check your tire pressure at least once a month. The best time to do this is in the morning before you've driven your vehicle, as driving heats up the tires and increases the pressure.

Find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle in the owner's manual or on the tire placard, usually located on the driver's side door jamb. Then, use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in each tire. If the pressure is too low, add air until it reaches the recommended level. If it's too high, let some air out.

Professional Tire Services

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might find that one or more of your tires consistently loses pressure. This could indicate a slow leak, which happens when there's a small hole in your tire. In this case, it's time to bring your vehicle in for professional service.

At Sartorial Auto Repairs, we offer comprehensive tire services, including pressure checks, inflation, rotation, and repairs. Our skilled technicians can quickly identify and fix any issues, ensuring your tires are in optimal condition and helping you maximize your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Proper tire pressure is just one part of overall car maintenance, of course. But, it’s an easy one to overlook and it can have a significant impact on your vehicle’s performance and your wallet. Be proactive about your tire pressure. It’s simple, it’s quick, and it can save you money. That’s a win all around.

So next time you're in the neighborhood of Sonoma County or Cotati, CA, swing by. We'll keep your tires in tip-top shape. Sartorial Auto Repairs – we're here to help you get the most out of your ride.