Should You Add Extra Air To Your Tires When The Weather Is Cold?

Ever noticed your car's tire pressure light coming on during a cold Texas morning? You're not alone. Many wonder if they need to add extra air to their tires when the temperature drops.

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I too was looking for a definitive answer. I came across an article from Tire Rack that pointed me in the right direction. Let's take a look and break this down in simple terms.

LOOK: SHOULD YOU ADD EXTRA AIR TO YOUR TIRES WHEN THE WEATHER IS COLD?

First, let's dig into why all this happens. It's all about air pressure and temperature. Air contracts when it's cold and expands when it's hot. So when the temperature drops, the air inside your tires contracts, and that lowers the pressure. This doesn't mean there's a leak, it's just physics.

Now, the big question. Should you add air? The answer is yes but with a twist. It's important to maintain the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. Usually, you can find a sticker inside the driver's door or in your owner’s manual. Correctly inflated tires make for better vehicle handling, longer tire life, and improved fuel efficiency.

On the other hand, don't just fill your tires willy-nilly. Overinflating can be just as bad as underinflating. Overinflated tires can reduce the tire’s overall contact area with the road. This makes for a bumpier ride and increased wear in the center of the tire.

Here's a pro tip: Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when there's a change in the temperature. Plan it for every month and adjust as needed. It’s always best to check the pressure when the tires are "cold", meaning the car hasn’t been driven for at least three hours.

So when you wake up to a frosty morning in Texas and see that tire pressure light, it's probably just time to give your tires a little extra boost of air. Remember, it's not just about avoiding that annoying dashboard light, it's about making sure you're safe on Texas roads.