Why Your Tire Pressure Changes Randomly In Las Vegas
Imagine this, you’re driving on the hot Las Vegas highway when all of the sudden, your low tire pressure light flickers on. Instantly, you ask yourself, “WHY did that happen?”
Well, this happened to many people this past weekend after temperatures dipped from the usual scorching numbers.
The weather has a significant impact on the tire pressure in your car. Tire pressure refers to the amount of air inside the tires, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). Proper pressure is crucial for optimal vehicle performance, safety, fuel efficiency, and even tire longevity. Hence, understanding how weather affects pressure is essential for every driver.
Temperature plays a key role in altering tire pressure. As the temperature rises or falls, the air inside the tires expands or contracts accordingly. In warmer weather, the air molecules in the tire gain molecular motion, leading to an increase in pressure. Conversely, in colder temperatures, the air molecules decrease molecular motion, resulting in reduced pressure, according to TireRack.com. This impact of temperature on pressure is commonly known as the Ideal Gas Law.
High temperatures during summers can cause tire pressure to increase beyond the recommended limit. Overinflated tires can lead to reduced traction, uneven tread wear, decreased handling, and an increased risk of a blowout. On the other hand, colder temperatures in winters can cause pressure to drop below the ideal range. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency, increase rolling resistance, affect braking distance, especially on icy or snowy roads, and can lead to sidewall damage or a flat tire,, according to United Tires.
Apart from temperature, changes in atmospheric pressure can also affect the tire pressure. When a weather system moves into an area, the atmospheric pressure changes. A decrease in atmospheric pressure (low-pressure system) can cause tires to lose pressure, while an increase (high-pressure system) can cause tires to gain pressure. These pressure changes may have a minor impact compared to temperature, but they can still cause some fluctuations in the tire’s pressure.
To minimize the effects of weather on the tire’s pressure, it is crucial to regularly monitor and maintain the recommended tire pressure levels specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Checking the pressure once a month or before long trips is recommended, United Tires states. Additionally, it is essential to consider the prevailing weather conditions before heading out on the roads. Be sure to adjust pressure accordingly and always be cautious to not overinflate or underinflate the tires.
The weather, especially temperature variations, has a significant impact on the tire’s pressure in your car. Understanding these effects helps drivers to maintain optimal pressure levels, ensuring vehicle safety, performance, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. Regular monitoring and adjustment of tire’s pressure in accordance with weather conditions are necessary to ensure a smooth and secure driving experience year-round.
Marlon "DJ Thump" Rice is a morning show host on Jammin’ 105.7 "Thump In The Morning!" He has been with the station for the past six years and has been inducted into the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame class of 2019. DJ Thump has toured with R&B legend Al B. Sure! As his music director. As a content creator for Jammin’ 105.7, DJ Thump writes articles on sports, preferably the Las Vegas Raiders and the world champion Las Vegas Aces. DJ Thump writes about the local community (which he is heavily involved in) as well as local Black-owned businesses.
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