In Canada, we are accustomed to the dynamic whims of Mother Nature. From frigid Canadian winters to scorching summers, our country experiences a wide range of weather conditions. Amidst these fluctuations in weather conditions, tire pressure is an area of vehicle maintenance that Canadian drivers need to pay close attention to. This is because temperature changes have a significant impact on air pressure and driving conditions, which then influence road safety and even the performance of a vehicle. Here is what you need to know about the importance of tire pressure in the various weather conditions in Canada.

What is Tire Pressure?

Tire pressure can be understood as the amount of air inside a car tire. It is measured in pounds per square inch PSI. The right tire pressure depends on factors like car make, car model, tire size, and load capacity, among others. All in all, the recommended tire pressure is essential for proper handling, traction, and fuel efficiency. If you are not sure about the right tire pressure for your car, you should consult your owner’s manual.

How Canadian Seasons Affect Tire Pressure

Temperature is the weather element with the most significant impact on tire pressure. During winter months, the cold weather causes the air inside the tires to contract, leading to a significant drop in tire pressure. Unfortunately, this hurts traction and handling, which increases the risk of accidents. Furthermore, reduced traction compromises your car’s fuel economy, making winter driving more expensive. On the other hand, the temperature increase in summer causes the air inside the tires to expand, leading to an increase in tire pressure. Unfortunately, overinflated tires also pose several problems. For instance, they wear out more rapidly and are more susceptible to tire failure, such as blowouts.

What to Do About It

Clearly, both overinflated and underinflated tires caused by seasonal temperature changes in Canada can pose several serious safety hazards. Therefore, for you to continue driving safely throughout the year, regular maintenance is essential. For instance, you need to check your tire pressure at least once per month using a reliable pressure gauge. This should preferably be done when it’s cold, such as early in the morning. You also need to subject your tires to regular inspection to ensure that any signs of trouble are spotted and addressed on time.

In addition to regular maintenance, you need to adjust your tire pressure according to seasonal changes. In winter, you can increase the air pressure to reduce the risk of underinflation. In summer, you can reduce tire pressure slightly to prevent driving with overinflated tires. However, these adjustments have to be within the manufacturer’s recommended range. You can invest in winter tires and summer tires and use them accordingly.

If you are looking for top-quality professional tire services in or around Saskatoon, Tread Nation is the best place to go. Get in touch with us today for more information about our tires and tire maintenance services.