The Importance of Tire Pressure

Tires might be the most durable part of your car. They're designed to withstand a variety of different terrains, temperatures, and conditions, while still providing traction and stopping power. Though how often do you really think about them unless there's something wrong?

Audi West Palm Beach wants to make sure drivers in Boynton Beach and Delray Beach know that your tires need maintenance just like every other part of your car. That's why we put together this review of the importance of tire pressure.

Why Tire Pressure is Important

Tire pressure refers to the amount of air that's been added to inflate each tire. This is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). This is crucial for you to have a smooth and safe ride.

If you're overinflated and above the recommended psi, the rubber will be harder, and the tread won't wear down evenly. This can result in the center of your tires losing traction quickly while the outside still looks new.

If you're underinflated, the opposite occurs. You'll see the center tread look newer while the edges seem smooth. Both of these can result in less traction and hurt your ability to stop quickly.

Things like mileage and age can affect how your psi rating changes over time. Temperature can affect your tire pressure too, so it's important to check it a couple times a year.

What Should My Tire Pressure Be?

The right tire pressure is one of those things that can vary greatly between cars. A sporty compact car with smaller wheels is going to have a much different recommended psi than an SUV with wheels meant for off-roading.

The correct psi range for your car can usually be found in two places. Many cars have a sticker somewhere, usually inside the door jam, trunk lid, fuel tank door, or near the spare tire, that will tell you the recommended range.

If you're not able to find this sticker, consult your owner's manual or contact an Audi service center.

How to Check Your Tire Pressure

Many new cars have technology than can help you stay on top of your tire pressure. A Tire Pressure Monitor system detects when your psi falls below its recommended rating.

When this occurs the TPMS sends an alert to the driver, usually to the instrument cluster on the dashboard.

If you have an older car or you like to keep up with maintenance at home, you can check your tire pressure manually. First, you'll need to find the recommended psi range, then get a tire pressure gauge.

Unscrew the inflation cap on your tire and attach the gauge. It doesn't matter whether you get a new electronic one or a classic gauge with a dial, either one will be able to tell you the tire's current psi.

Audi Tire & Service Center

We have a full tire and service center with a staff of certified technicians. Whether you need air, new tires, or a rotation, they'll be able to take care of it for you.

Our entire service department is happy to offer excellent customer service for everything from routine maintenance to full service and repairs.

You can schedule service online or order new tires ahead of time, specifically sized for your make and model.

Stop by Sometime

If you want to learn more about the importance of tire pressure or have any other service questions, stop by Audi West Palm Beach. We take pride in being able to service drivers in Delray Beach and Boynton Beach.