Tire pressure

A pneumatic tire is not a self-sufficient product and cannot function without air pressure. The rules of the game will certainly change with the advent of airless tires, but until that happens, one should consider the nuances of tire pressure during their operation. With the onset of winter, car tires require special attention. One of the key aspects of preparing a car for cold weather is monitoring and adjusting the tire pressure. The correct pressure affects the car's handling, its stability on slippery roads, and its resistance to aquaplaning. It is essential to understand how the pressure in the tires changes with a decrease in temperature and how to adjust it for optimal vehicle operation.

Air in tires is subject to the laws of physics: when the ambient temperature decreases, the pressure in the tires decreases. According to a general rule, with every 10 °C decrease in temperature, the pressure in the tires decreases by approximately 0.1 bar. This means that if you set the pressure to the level recommended by the manufacturer in the fall, it may drop significantly with the onset of winter, leading to negative consequences.
Low tire pressure increases the contact area between the tire and the road, which can lead to increased tire wear, reduced traction, and a higher risk of aquaplaning on wet or slippery roads.

It is essential to check the pressure regularly
In the winter season, it is recommended to check the tire pressure at least once every two weeks, as well as before each long trip. It is especially important to do this after significant temperature changes. The pressure check should be performed on cold tires, i.e., before starting the engine, as the tire temperature rises during movement, and the readings may be incorrect.

Car and tire manufacturers indicate the recommended tire pressure for normal conditions, which usually implies an ambient temperature of around +20 °C. With the onset of winter, it is worth increasing the tire pressure by 0.2-0.3 bar compared to the recommended value to compensate for the pressure drop due to low temperatures.

Do not allow excessive pressure
Despite the need to compensate for the pressure drop at low temperatures, one should not allow too high pressure in the tires. Overinflated tires can negatively affect the car's handling due to a decrease in the contact patch. Also, excessive pressure increases uneven tire wear, with more intense wear in the central part of the tread.

Consider the load on the vehicle
If you plan a long trip with a full load, the tire pressure should be slightly increased compared to the usual mode. As a rule, the manufacturer has a recommendation for the case of full loading. But if there is no such recommendation, it is recommended to increase the pressure by 0.2 bar. This will help to evenly distribute the load over the tire surface and provide optimal traction with the road. Information on adjusting the pressure under load can be found in the operating manual of your vehicle.

Use high-quality pressure gauges
To measure the tire pressure, use a reliable and accurate pressure gauge. Some gas stations may offer pressure gauges with errors, so it is desirable to have your own device for constant pressure monitoring. When choosing a pressure gauge, prefer digital models, as they are usually more accurate than mechanical ones.


Monitoring the tire pressure before the winter season is an essential step in preparing the car for operation in cold conditions. The correct pressure helps to improve traction with the road, increase handling, and reduce the risk of emergency situations. Regular checking and adjusting the pressure will allow you to extend the life of the tires and ensure comfortable and safe driving in the winter.