Straight Steer Automotive's Pit Crew recommends that you check the pressure of your tyres, including your spare, monthly and always before any long journey, preferably when your tyres are cold. If the tyres are hot, it is advisable to add 4-5 psi (0.3 bar) to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Having the correct tyre pressure reduces the risk of losing control of your vehicle. It also protects your tyres from premature wear and from irreversible damage to the tyres internal construction. Tyre pressure can drop due to small perforations, the natural escape of air through the tyre's components or even from a decrease in ambient temperatures. So it is important to check it once a month, because:
• Low pressure increases the risk of damage to your tyres
• Excess pressure of 20% can reduce the life of your tyre by up to 10,000 kms
• Correct tyre pressure will even save YOU fuel
The recommended tyre pressure can be found:
• In the User's Manual of your vehicle
• On the labels on the side door beside the driver's seat
• In the storage drawer near the driver's seat
• On the inside of the fuel flap
But NOT on the tyre. The inflation pressure shown on the tyre sidewall is only the maximum tyre inflation pressure.
