June 12, 2011 Posted by Jake in Car Talk

Proper Tire Inflation

The most common tire care problem is under-inflation. And there seems to be a large misconception that tires and rims perform some type of magical air-tight seal, therefore the only time you lose air pressure is due to a puncture. This couldn’t be farther from the truth, and under-inflation causes serious issues. For starters, a tire takes more energy to roll with less air pressure in it, and that resistance causes the engine to work harder, and in turn increases fuel consumption. In fact, an under-inflated tire can increase fuel consumption up to 2% per pound of pressure below the recommended level. Under-inflated tires also generate more heat, primarily in the sidewalls of the tires. Heat is one of the prime enemies of tires, and excessive heat can cause a blow-out, or at the very least shorten the tires' service life. Additionally, tires with low tire pressure respond slower to steering input and suspension dynamics therefore creating safety concerns - just when you need to swerve quickly to avoid a collision, the tires may not respond the way you want.

Motoring Unlimited is committed to your safety and vehicle care. Our technicians will check and set your tire pressures anytime, at no charge, and always inspect and set them during even the most minor of vehicle services. Should you need tire replacement, Motoring Unlimited is equipped with state of the art balancing, and touch-less tire replacement equipment to keep your Porsche and Audi wheels and tires in perfect working order.

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