Road trips, beach days, and cruising under the warm Aussie sun – that’s what summer is all about! But it’s also a season that can present unique challenges to your vehicle. As the mercury rises, so does the temperatures and tyre pressure inside your tyres, which can have a significant impact on your driving safety, performance, and even fuel efficiency.
So, how do hot summer temperatures affect the pressure inside your tyres? Read on to find out.
The Science Behind Temperature and Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressure isn’t static – it changes with temperature due to the principles of physics. Put simply, the air inside your tyres expands when heated and contracts when cooled. For every 10°C increase in temperature, tyre pressure can increase by approximately 1 PSI (pound per square inch).
On a scorching summer day, temperatures on the pavement can reach 50°C or more, which means your tyre pressure could rise significantly above the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
The Risks of Overinflated Tyres
Overinflated tyres may not seem like a big deal, but the risks associated with it can pose serious dangers. When tyres are inflated beyond their recommended pressure, they become more susceptible to dangerous blowouts. The increased pressure also causes the tyre’s surface to wear unevenly and can lead to a loss of traction, especially on wet or slippery roads. This not only compromises vehicle safety but can also result in longer stopping distances.
Overinflated tyres can also adversely affect fuel efficiency. As the contact patch with the road diminishes, your vehicle may also struggle for grip, leading to excessive wear on suspension components resulting in expensive repairs.
How to Protect Your Tyres During Summer
Check Pressure Regularly – Use a reliable pressure gauge to check your tyres at least once a month and before long drives. Do this in the morning and when the tyres are cold (before driving), as driving heats them up and skews readings. If your car is not fitted with a tyre pressure monitoring system, it’s a smart idea to invest in an aftermarket version.
Check for Damage – Look for any cracks, bulges, or embedded objects that could weaken the tyre structure and make it vulnerable to heat-related failures. If you notice any major damage, visit your local tyre shop for an inspection – they may recommend that you replace the tyre.
Rotate Your Tyres – Rotating your tyres ensures even tread wear, which improves performance and reduces the risk of blowouts in extreme temperatures.
Be Mindful of Where You Park – Whenever possible, try to park your car in a garage, shaded area, or on cooler surfaces like grass and concrete, as asphalt can intensify heat exposure.
How a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System Can Help
A tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is a helpful device for summer tyre maintenance that every vehicle owner should consider. With rising temperatures, we can’t reinforce enough the importance of maintaining optimal tyre pressure. A TPMS actively monitors your tyre inflation in real-time, providing immediate alerts to changes above or below recommended levels.
Not only does it help prolong the life of your tyres by ensuring they operate at their peak, but it also enhances safety for you and your passengers. By preventing issues before they escalate into serious problems, a TPMS becomes an essential piece of safety equipment during those warmer months when driving conditions can change rapidly.
Beat the Heat with a TPMS
Summer driving adventures should be fun stress-free, and that starts with paying attention to your tyre pressure. It’s important to have an understanding of how heat impacts your tyres and take some proactive steps, this will ensure that your car is road-trip ready and safe to handle the hot Aussie summer.
If you’re looking for the best TPMS to stay safer on the road this summer, reach out to Safe T Tyre today – Australia’s leading choice for premium tyre pressure monitors! Shop online now.