What are the Warning Signs of Low Tire Pressure?
The overall health of your tires affects your driving, so maintaining proper tire inflation is essential to vehicle handling, overall tire performance, good fuel efficiency, and load carrying capability. A properly inflated tire will reduce tread movement (giving your tire a longer life), reduce rolling resistance (increases fuel efficiency), and increases water dispersion (decreases the possibility of hydroplaning). Both over-inflation and under-inflation can cause premature tread wear and possible tire failure.
In this article, we discuss the five warning signs of low tire pressure:
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) -- The purpose of the TPMS is to alert you when tire pressure is too low, resulting in unsafe driving conditions, undue tire wear, and possible tire failure. Check the pressure of all of the tires with a gauge and determine the cause of pressure loss. You can try adding some air, but if the light stays on, schedule a tire service.
- Below-Average Fuel Economy – The EPA-estimated fuel economy rating for your vehicle was determined with properly inflated tires in mind. Underinflated tires will take more engine power (and more fuel) to get the same mileage. If you notice that you are having to refuel more often than normal or a little sooner than usual, check your tire pressure.
- Flapping Noise – If you hear a flapping noise or a “whomp-whomp” noise when you're driving, it could the sound of the underinflated tire slapping the pavement. This is also a common first sign of a flat tire. Pull over immediately and check the tire pressure.
- Steering Problems – If you notice your vehicle is swaying into turns, taking too long to turn compared to normal, or just feels odd in terms of steering and maneuverability, it could be low tire pressure. Pull over and check the tire pressure as soon as possible. If that doesn't remedy the problem, take your car to your auto shop to have it checked out.
- Stopping Distance – If your vehicle is taking longer than usual to come to a complete stop, it could be due to low tire pressure. The tires can't grip the pavement as well when underinflated.
Tip to Remember: Checking the inflation pressure in your tires is an important part of routine tire service, especially for your safety and that of others. Check tire pressure once a month, and before a long trip or when carrying an extra load.
Looking for quality tire service? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about the warnings signs of low tire pressure and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.
The overall health of your tires affects your driving, so maintaining proper tire inflation is essential to vehicle handling, overall tire performance, good fuel efficiency, and load carrying capability. A properly inflated tire will reduce tread movement (giving your tire a longer life), reduce rolling resistance (increases fuel efficiency), and increases water dispersion (decreases the possibility of hydroplaning). Both over-inflation and under-inflation can cause premature tread wear and possible tire failure.
In this article, we discuss the five warning signs of low tire pressure:
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) -- The purpose of the TPMS is to alert you when tire pressure is too low, resulting in unsafe driving conditions, undue tire wear, and possible tire failure. Check the pressure of all of the tires with a gauge and determine the cause of pressure loss. You can try adding some air, but if the light stays on, schedule a tire service.
- Below-Average Fuel Economy – The EPA-estimated fuel economy rating for your vehicle was determined with properly inflated tires in mind. Underinflated tires will take more engine power (and more fuel) to get the same mileage. If you notice that you are having to refuel more often than normal or a little sooner than usual, check your tire pressure.
- Flapping Noise – If you hear a flapping noise or a “whomp-whomp” noise when you're driving, it could the sound of the underinflated tire slapping the pavement. This is also a common first sign of a flat tire. Pull over immediately and check the tire pressure.
- Steering Problems – If you notice your vehicle is swaying into turns, taking too long to turn compared to normal, or just feels odd in terms of steering and maneuverability, it could be low tire pressure. Pull over and check the tire pressure as soon as possible. If that doesn't remedy the problem, take your car to your auto shop to have it checked out.
- Stopping Distance – If your vehicle is taking longer than usual to come to a complete stop, it could be due to low tire pressure. The tires can't grip the pavement as well when underinflated.
Tip to Remember: Checking the inflation pressure in your tires is an important part of routine tire service, especially for your safety and that of others. Check tire pressure once a month, and before a long trip or when carrying an extra load.
Looking for quality tire service? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Expert Car Care today for more information about the warnings signs of low tire pressure and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of West Allis, WI, and surrounding area.
