Correct Tyre Pressure For Vehicles

Name: Pegasus Couriers
Price range: $

Martin Smith

Pegasus Couriers MD

One critical aspect of vehicle maintenance that often goes overlooked is the correct tyre pressure. Many drivers underestimate the significance of tyre pressure in maximising their vehicle’s performance and improving safety. In this article, I will discuss the benefits of maintaining correct tyre pressure and give some fuel-saving tips.

Facts About Tyre Pressure

Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential for safety and vehicle performance.

Correct tyre pressure ensures your vehicle’s tyres wear evenly, handle correctly, and operate efficiently- ultimately extending their lifespan.

If you see wearing on one tyre – more than another – it could be linked to tyre pressure.

Other factors that correct tyre pressure impacts include handling and traction.

Correct tyre pressure is known to improve fuel efficiency. Underinflated tyres create more rolling resistance, causing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. This can cause the vehicle to guzzle more fuel and emit more carbon dioxide.

The basic rule of thumb is that underinflated tyres can increase fuel consumption between 0.6% and 3%*— the more underinflated your tyres, the more fuel you’ll use.

Other factors that correct tyre pressure assists with are handling and traction.

Maintaining Tyre Pressure

Follow these tips to ensure that your vehicle’s tyres are always in top condition:

Check your tyre pressure at least once a month.
Ensure your tyres are cold (not warmed up from driving) before checking the pressure.
Inflate your tyres to the recommended pressure listed in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the tyre placard (usually a sticker located on the inside of the driver’s side door )
Don’t overinflate your tyres, which can cause uneven tyre wear and reduce handling.
Check your tyre pressure before long trips.
Reassess your tyre pressure when you have a weight change, such as carrying a heavier-than-usual load.

Blowouts and Risks

Driving with incorrect tyre pressure can lead to significant safety risks.

Yes, tyre pressure can increase the risk of a blowout, which could be fatal.

According to several tyre experts, low tyre pressure is one of the leading causes of blowouts. In short, when air pressure gets too low, the sidewalls bulge, and heat builds when driving. This then results in a degree of friction at a speed that causes the tyre to weaken and burst.

If this happens unexpectedly, a blowout may occur.

The Worrying Facts

In 2020, Halfords released research showing that 23 million UK motorists drive on the roads with underinflated tyres.

Worryingly, the research also showed that just 40 per cent of road users across the UK could correctly identify the low tyre pressure warning light.

Another 50 per cent of drivers said they ignore the warning light despite the risks.

Halfords warned that defective tyres can be costly and deadly.

Underinflated tyres could also hit drivers in their pockets. Police officers can fine a driver £2,500 and three penalty points per underinflated tyre.

This means that vehicles with severe issues could lead to a considerable fine or – depending on the circumstances – even get the driver banned from driving.

Consider All Factors

Several factors can affect your vehicle’s tyre pressure, including temperature changes, altitude, and driving habits. Cold temperatures can cause your tyre pressure to drop, while hot temperatures can cause it to increase.

Altitude changes can also affect tyre pressure, as the air pressure at higher altitudes is lower than at sea level. Driving habits like hard braking and accelerating can increase tyre pressure. It’s essential to consider these factors when checking and adjusting your tyre pressure.

Importance of Tyre Pressure for Pegasus Couriers Delivery Vans

At Pegasus Couriers, we emphasise tyre pressure maintenance as it maximises vehicle performance and increases safety.
Our drivers must complete a daily online checklist. As part of our good practice, we also have a weekly van inspection form that includes any tyre related – and other – issues.
In addition, on-site managers also remind drivers to check and ensure the correct tyre pressure before delivery. Some of our sites also have health inspections by outside parties to ensure compliance.

Following the tips and guidelines outlined here, you can ensure your vehicle’s tyres are always in top condition.

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