Tyre pressure plays a vital role in the safety, performance, handling, and fuel economy of every car. Driving on under-inflated causes more friction between the road and the tyre, which can result in premature tyre wear and tear, reduced fuel efficiency and even a dangerous blowout. Tyres can leak air for a variety of reasons, so it’s important to regularly check the pressure to ensure its correct. A tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) from Safe T Tyre offers a convenient alternative to manual pressure checks. Affordable and easy to install, our TPMS will constantly monitor the air pressure and alert you immediately to any changes. Read on to find out a few of the common factors that can cause your tyre pressure to drop.
A Puncture
One of the most obvious reasons that a tyre can lose air pressure is through a puncture. Some punctures are severe and you will notice them instantly, however, slow leak punctures can go undetected for days or even weeks, gradually draining your tyre of air without you realising. Although these punctures are generally small, they can have a drastic effect on your air pressure, causing it to drop by up to 3 PSI per day.
A Defective Valve or Valve Insert
The tyre valve keeps air in the tyre and allows you to refill the tyre with an air pump. When closed it should be completely airtight. A faulty or damaged tyre valve can result in air escaping slowly, gradually decreasing your air pressure. Over-tightening the valve stem core can also cause air loss, so be careful not to over-tighten it if you ever need to replace it.
Damaged Tyre Bead
This is the part of the tyre that is in contact with the wheel itself. If a small piece of debris manages to get between the wheel rim and the tyre, this can allow air to escape, deflating the tyre slowly. Old tyre may also have a tyre bead that’s degraded to the point where it leaks air. Damage to the tyre bead can also occur during the installation of a new tyre on to the rim.
Ambient Temperature Changes
If a tyre loses pressure when there’s no leak, it could be due to extreme changes in the outside air temperature. This is due to the fact that air contracts when it’s cooled and expands when heated.
For every 5.5°C reduction in outside temperature, tyres can lose up to 2% of their pressure. This works in reverse too, with every increase in temperature of 5.5°C, your tyre pressure can increase by up to 2%.
What is the Correct Air Pressure Level for My Tyres?
Every car manufacturer specifies the air pressure required for each vehicle make and model. To find this information, you can check the owner’s manual or check the inner side of the fuel filler flap as this is where the key tyre values are specified, including the pressure level and tyre size.
Ways to Maintain Tyre Pressure
- Where possible, avoid hazards on the road. Such things as potholes and shattered glass can cause damage to your tyres leading to losses in air pressure.
- Regularly check the tightness of your valves, ensuring there’s no leaks.
- Frequently check the condition of your tyres and get them replaced or repaired when required.
- Make it a habit to check your air pressure at your local service station at least once per month.
- Invest in a tyre pressure monitoring system.
How Can a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Help?
While most newer cars sold should be equipped with an in-built TPMS that automatically checks the tyre pressure, many older cars are not fitted with this technology. The good news is a tyre pressure monitoring system can be purchased and installed easily to most vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans and even trailers, caravans and horse floats. The system consists of pressure sensors fitted to each tyre which continually monitor the air pressure and alert the driver if the tyre pressure drops below a safe level.
Purchase a TPMS Today
If you are looking for a high quality yet affordable TPMS for your vehicle, Safe T Tyre has your needs covered. With years of experience and expertise in service and in safety, we bring the best in tyre pressure monitoring technology to Australia. To purchase yours, contact us online or call us today on 1800 876 700.