Is under-inflating my tires in cold weather a good idea?
After a mild Thanksgiving, Wichita residents are waking up to a weather alert that snow is on its way. The snow is expected to start in the northwest and spread east for Saturday.
“Almost all major highways and interstates around the state will be impacted by the winter system,” Kwch.com says. And, “Wichita is expected to get 2-4 inches. Temperatures will be a mix of 20s and 30s, and there will be some rain mixing with the snow around Wichita before it changes to all snow Saturday evening.” Therefore, drivers are warned to be careful on icy, snowy roads.
The change in temperature begs the question: Should I under-inflate my tires to make road travel safer?
Auto.howstuffworks.com notes many drivers are looking for ways to make driving safer. One tip that is brought up often is to under-inflate your tires. But is that a good idea?
No, it is not a good idea.
Auto.howstuffworks.com explains: The idea is that allowing air out of the tire increases the amount of tire – or contact patch – that touches the road. The greater the contact patch, the better the grip and less likely an accident. That is true until the roads are plowed. At that point, under-inflated tires will provide too much contact and lead to difficult steering.
Under-inflation can also damage tires and wheels.
Instead, find the recommended tire PSI in the owner’s manual of your vehicle. Auto.howstuffworks.com says it will also be indicated in the sticker in the car door jamb. That’s the number you should aim for.
If you’re unsure, or want help, you can always get ASE certified advice at Tracy’s Automotive.
Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive is your automotive expert n Wichita. We are here for whatever you need. Don’t have time? Or, feel you can take your car to the shop? Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive will pick your vehicle up at your home or work. Then, after your car is serviced or repaired, Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive will bring it back to you thoroughly cleaned.
Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive has a passion for a better tire buying, auto care and auto repair experience. This has driven us to develop our model of superior automotive care. Tracy’s has turned hard work and inspiration into a booming tire and auto repair provider. Now Tracy’s has three locations. And, we serve customers all over Wichita and Goddard: West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N.. Tracy’s is thrilled to be a part of your family’s trusted brands for all auto repair and tire needs.
Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.
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