PREVIOUSLY, we've discussed that driving a vehicle with tyre pressure below the recommended level is bad news for your wallet, as it results in higher fuel consumption.
So should we pump the tyre to the pressure listed on our tyre's sidewall? Maybe a little extra for a just-in-case measure?
Surely that has to be the ideal solution. Right?
Verdict:
FALSE
While it is not recommended to drive with an under-pressurised tyre, the same applies to maximally pressurised, or worse, over-pressurised tyres.
The number on the side of the tyre is the maximum pressure the tyre can handle, not the recommended operating pressure for your vehicle.
For the best ride, safety, and fuel efficiency, you should follow the recommended tyre pressure listed on the vehicle’s tyre information placard.
This can usually be found on the driver’s side door, the fuel filler cap, or in the owner's manual.
The manufacturer determines the number that provides the best balance of safety, handling, braking and comfort for that particular car.
This specific tyre pressure has been predetermined by the car's manufacturer through a series of tests and has gone through rigorous analysis for each model.
Don't you want to drive your car in its optimum state — how it is meant to be driven?
Even if your answer is no, there are plenty of other reasons why you should not pump your car's tyres to their maximum level.
Pumping it to the maximum may result in over-inflation, which leads to less traction, a harsher ride and uneven wear on the centre of the tyre tread.
Which means the tyre will only last half as long as it should.
In short, a faster tyre change equals more money. Aren't you tyred of spending more money?
Reference:
1. www.pirelli.com/tires/en-us/car/driving-and-tire-tips/how-to-read/recommended-tire-pressure
2. www.miniofsanantonio.com/the-truth-about-over-inflating-your-tires.htm
