How to Keep Your Tyres at the Right Pressure Year-Round

Key Takeaways

• Underinflated tyres increase fuel consumption by creating more rolling resistance and decrease tyre lifespan through uneven wear.
• Check tyre pressure at least once a month to maintain optimal safety and efficiency, especially before long trips.
• Tyre pressure can drop by around 1-2 PSI for every 10°C decrease in temperature, making winter checks crucial.
• Always measure tyre pressure when tyres are cold for the most accurate readings, ideally in the morning or after the car has been parked for a few hours.
• Ordiniq’s AutoPump is a convenient solution for maintaining proper tyre pressure with its powerful 150 PSI performance and smart auto shut-off feature.

Maintaining Optimal Tyre Pressure

Safety Benefits

Tyres that are not properly inflated can lead to a host of issues, including reduced traction, increased wear, and even blowouts. 

Underinflated tyres can make your vehicle harder to control and increase stopping distances, putting you and others at risk. 

When tyres are properly inflated, they provide better grip and handling, which is especially important during sudden manoeuvres or in adverse weather conditions. 

Longevity and Efficiency

Uneven tyre wear can lead to premature tyre replacement, which is both costly and inconvenient. On the contrary, properly inflated tyres wear more evenly, which means they will last longer.

Keeping tyres at the right pressure helps to maintain their structural integrity, reducing the likelihood of punctures and blowouts.

In addition, properly inflated tyres also contribute to better fuel efficiency. Underinflated tyres create more rolling resistance - meaning your vehicle has to work harder to move, thus consuming more fuel. This affects your wallet and increases your carbon footprint.

Seasonal Adjustments

Tyre pressure is affected by temperature changes. 

In colder weather, air inside the tyres contracts, causing pressure to drop. Conversely, in warmer weather, the air expands, potentially increasing pressure. It’s necessary to adjust tyre pressure in relation to the season to maintain optimal performance.

Temperature Effects

Cold Weather Impact

When driving in cold weather, you should be aware that tyre pressure drops significantly. 

For every 10°C decrease in temperature, you can expect a drop of 1–2 PSI in tyre pressure. This means your tyres are likely to be underinflated if not regularly checked and adjusted during winter. 

This drop in pressure can lead to increased wear and decreased performance. In fact, you should check your tyre pressure more frequently during the colder months and adjust as necessary to maintain the recommended levels.

Best Time for Accuracy

To get the most accurate tyre pressure readings, it's best to check the pressure when the tyres are cold. 

This means measuring the pressure first thing in the morning or after the car has been parked for a few hours. When tyres are driven on, they heat up, which can cause the air inside to expand and give a false high reading. 

Always aim to check tyre pressure when the vehicle hasn't been in motion for at least a couple of hours.

Try to avoid checking tyre pressure immediately after a long drive. 

If you have to check it when the tyres are warm, be aware that the reading may be slightly higher than the recommended cold pressure.

Recommended Tools

Having the right tools is essential for maintaining the correct tyre pressure, starting with a reliable tyre pressure gauge. Digital gauges are often more accurate than their analogue counterparts and are easier to read. 

Also consider investing in a portable tyre inflator, which allows you to inflate tyres at home without the need to visit a petrol station.

Steps to Measure Pressure

You can follow these steps to measure your tyre pressure:

• Ensure the tyres are cold before starting.
• Remove the valve cap from the tyre.
• Firmly press the pressure gauge onto the valve stem.
• Read the pressure on the gauge and compare it to the recommended pressure found in your vehicle's manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.
• If the pressure is too low, inflate the tyre to the correct level using an air compressor. If it's too high, release some air until it matches the recommended pressure.
• Replace the valve cap securely.

If you prefer to check your vehicle’s tyre pressure yourself, just follow this guide. 

Adjusting Tyre Pressure

Inflation Techniques

Once you've measured the pressure and found it to be outside the recommended range, it's time to adjust it. 

Here's how to do it using a portable tyre inflator:

• Attach the air hose to the valve stem securely.
• If you’re using a digital air compressor, select the right vehicle mode. For example, our AutoPump has 3 main modes: car, motorbike, bike or ball.
• Turn on the compressor and add air in short bursts. A digital air compressor will add the air automatically.
• Check the pressure frequently with your gauge to avoid overinflation. A digital air compressor will shut down on its own once the right tyre pressure is reached. 
• Once the desired pressure is reached, remove the hose and replace the valve cap.

Take your time to ensure you reach the correct pressure without overinflating. 

Deflation Methods

If your tyres are overinflated, you’ll need to release some air. Here’s how you can do it:

• Press the small pin in the centre of the valve stem with the edge of the gauge or a small tool.
• Release air in short bursts and check the pressure regularly.
• Continue until the pressure matches the recommended level.
• Replace the valve cap once you're done.

Deflating tyres requires careful attention to avoid letting out too much air. Always recheck the pressure after each adjustment.

Tips for Consistency

Here are some tips to ensure you keep your tyres in top shape:

• Set a reminder to check tyre pressure monthly.
• Always check pressure before long trips or when carrying heavy loads.
• Use the same pressure gauge for consistent readings.
• Inspect tyres for visible damage or foreign objects regularly.

Keeping Your Tyres In Check, The Ordiniq Way

At Ordiniq, we understand the challenges that seasonal changes and regular driving present to maintaining optimal tyre pressure. That's why we've developed the Ordiniq AutoPump—your solution to hassle-free tyre maintenance.

"Being a dad of 2 girls in college, this is exactly the type of gadget I look for when buying them gifts. The last thing I want is them to be stranded somewhere at night depending on strangers to help.” — Richard E. Manchester, UK

The AutoPump eliminates the guesswork from tyre care with its smart auto shut-off technology that sets the perfect pressure every time. If you're dealing with winter's pressure-dropping cold or summer's expanding heat, our pocket-sized roadside hero ensures your tyres are always performing at their best.

With the Ordiniq AutoPump, you can quickly address pressure issues anywhere, anytime, from your driveway to roadside emergencies. Our powerful 150 PSI performance inflates tyres in minutes, and the built-in LED & SOS lights provide added security during nighttime situations.

Join the 10,000+ drivers who never worry about flat tyres again. Try the Ordiniq AutoPump risk-free for 90 days and experience the peace of mind that comes with proper tyre maintenance year-round.

Ready to get your tyres right all year round? Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I check my tyre pressure?

It's recommended to check your tyre pressure at least once a month so that you can identify any pressure loss early. Also check before long trips or when carrying heavy loads to ensure safety and performance.

Does seasonal change affect tyre pressure significantly?

Yes, seasonal changes can significantly affect tyre pressure. Cold weather causes air to contract, leading to a drop in pressure, while hot weather can cause air to expand, increasing pressure.

What tools are essential for maintaining tyre pressure?

Tools needed for maintaining tyre pressure include a reliable pressure gauge and a portable tyre inflater. These tools help you accurately measure and adjust tyre pressure.

Why is maintaining the correct tyre pressure crucial for safety?

Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is crucial for safety because it affects your vehicle's handling, braking efficiency, and overall stability. Underinflated tyres can lead to increased stopping distances and reduced control, especially in emergency situations.

How does the Ordiniq AutoPump make tyre maintenance easier?

Ordiniq’s AutoPump features a powerful 150 PSI output, smart auto shut-off, built-in LED and SOS lights, and multiple inflation modes. It’s compact, rechargeable, and designed to handle everything from car tyres to sports equipment—making tyre care fast, safe, and effortless.