What’s the Best Tire Pressure For Winter?

Have you noticed a change in tire pressure in winter vs. summer? Or perhaps you heard that you should keep your tires at a different pressure in winter than in summer? Properly inflated tires are important. The right tire pressure will give you the best traction, durability, fuel economy, and over all car performance and safety.

Generally, your tires loose 1 PSI (pounds per square inch) every month after you inflate your tire. In addition, your tires will gain or loose 1 PSI for every 10 degrees change in Fahrenheit outside. Usually, in the course of an average American day, that change is 20 degrees, so 2 PSI.

Cold air makes the air in your tire more compressed, thus lowering your PSI. Warmer weather makes the air in your tire expand more, thus increasing your PSI. You can have the same amount of air in your tire, and have different PSIs based on outside temperature.

This is why you might have to add some air in the winter. This is also why your check tire pressure light might turn on in the morning, but turn off by the afternoon in cold weather.

So what is the best tire pressure for winter?

Actually your manufacturer will indicate your car’s recommended PSI. This might be on a sticker in your door, or in your owner’s manual or even trunk. Usually the recommended tire pressure is 30-35 PSI.

When to check your tire pressure?

Check your tire pressure first thing in the morning, before driving, when the tires are cold. Calculate the temperature change in your area. If your pressure range is within your manufacturer’s range, then you’re good to go.

Of course, if you have any questions, you are most welcomed to give us a call or make an appointment with us. We are here to keep your car in tip top shape, no matter the weather!