Tire inflation made easy

Travel Tips

Be Tire Smart Canada  

Measuring and adjusting tire pressure is an easy, four step process that takes no more than five minutes. Here’s how:  

  1. Find the right inflation pressure by wheel position on the vehicle placard, which is commonly located on one of the vehicle’s inside door posts, or inside the glove compartment or fuel door. Consult the owner’s manual for the exact location.  
  2. Remember to only measure pressure when the tires are cold. If you have been driving, wait three hours before measuring tire pressure. Tires heat up when rolling, so if they are measured after driving more than two kilometres, the pressure reading will be inaccurate.  
  3. Use a reliable tire gauge when measuring pressure. A visual inspection is not an effective way of measuring tire pressure. A tire can be under or over inflated by 20 per cent or more and not be noticeable. Remove the cap from the valve stem, press the tire gauge onto the valve and take the pressure reading.  
  4. Add air until the recommended air pressure is achieved. If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the centre of the valve, then re-measure the pressure.  

Shortened tire life should also concern drivers who want to save their money and protect the environment. According to TRAC, chronic under-inflation can carve as much as 15,000 kilometres off the service life of a tire, adding to tire replacement costs and the number of scrap tires.

To help motorists improve their fuel-saving know-how, TRAC is providing an informative ‘Get Fuel Fit’ Guide – a free, online resource offering advice on tire selection, maintenance and driving habits that improve fuel economy and protect the environment.  

May 14 to 21, 2018, is National Be Tire Smart Week, during which the tire industry will be reminding motorists about the fuel efficiency, safety and environmental benefits of proper tire inflation and maintenance.  

Canadians can also learn more by visiting www.betiresmart.ca.

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