According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, under
inflated tires are attributed to crashes that result in 660 fatalities and
33,000 injuries each year.
Recent research sponsored by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA)
conducted surveys of 1,000 drivers nationwide and found that:
- 63 percent of motorists cite tire pressure as the most effective way to increase gas mileage.
- Only 19 percent of drivers properly check their tire inflation pressure.
- Each month, three out of four drivers wash their cars while only about one in five correctly checks their tire pressure.
You can improve your gas mileage by around 3.3 percent and save up to
$0.09/gallon by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure.
- Don¹t wait until it¹s too late Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once per month and before every long trip. Under inflated tires causes excess heat build-up that can damage tires and lead to a failure.
- Know your pressure point The correct tire pressure is found on a sticker on the driver¹s door, doorpost or owner¹s manual NOT on the tire sidewall that¹s the maximum pressure for the tire.
- Keep your cool To accurately measure your tire pressure, check tires when they are cold. Wait at least three hours after driving.
- Take care of your spare Check your spare tire each month and keep it properly inflated so it¹s ready to go when you need it most.
- Penny for your thoughts A penny can tell you if your tire is bald. Place a penny upside down into a tread groove. If you can see all of Lincoln¹s head, it¹s time for a new tire.
- Keep yourself in line Be aware of potholes that can not only damage your tire but can also jar your car¹s alignment.
- Pick a date and rotate Make sure you rotate your tires every 6,000 miles to promote uniform wear and longer tire life.
- Don¹t take a spin without a cap Driving without your tire valve cap allows for a slow leak of air from the tire and eventual underinflation.
- Don¹t lose your balance It is important to have your tire balance checked periodically to avoid irregular wear.
- Be a weight-watcher Overloading your vehicle stresses your tires and can lead to damage.