How Much Air is in that Tire? It looks a little low.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010 by Chad Hocker
Now that we have had a few good winter storms and colder temperatures for a couple of months it is a good time to check the tire pressure in our tires. Many newer vehicles come equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System that checks the tire pressure automatically. Some TPMS will only notify you if there is a significant difference in air pressure in different tires. If all tires lose pressure at the same rate the system will not offer a warning.

For vehicles without Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems or if sensors were not installed in a  Winter Tire Package an air gauge is the only way to know if your tires are properly inflated.  We may have let the tire pressure checking slip because it's been so cold out!  Well now is the time to get the air gauge out and check things over. 

Psiclops XPRS Tire GuageAccutire Digital Set Point Programmable Air Guage w/LightAccutire Digital Pencil Air Guage






Typically a tire will lose 1psi of pressure a month however when the temperature drops they will lose even more depending how cold the temperature is. Your tires will lose about 1 psi per 10 degree drop in temperature.   The best time to check tire pressure is first thing in the morning, however if have pulled the car in the garage I could recommend putting a 2-3 extra psi to compensate for the higher temperature in the garage. 

Check out some other tips for Tire Pressure Checking and Setting.

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Use that air gauge: Why checking tire inflation pressure is so important.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009 by Tire Rack Team
You could have the best tires in the world on your vehicle, but it wouldn't matter if the air pressure inside them was less than perfect. Tire load capacity, durability, traction and handling go hand-in-hand with air pressure, so pull out that air gauge. Too little or too much pressure can negatively affect performance.

Most people assume that the tire itself determines air pressure, and while this holds some truth, most air pressure is determined by the vehicle itself. Yes, the vehicle—tires can fit a variety of different vehicles, but the vehicle manufacturer knows exactly what type of tire pressure will draw out the greatest performance. The psi branded on a tire's sidewall indicates the tire's maximum cold inflation pressure, but that maximum pressure might not be what your individual vehicle needs for maximum performance. So, when using your air gauge, you should always check your vehicle manufacturer's air pressure recommendation found in your owner's manual. (Read more.)

See all air gauges available at Tire Rack.
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Stay safe this holiday travel season

Wednesday, November 25, 2009 by Neal O'Neal
     If you're like me, you always forget something when leaving the house for the holidays. The GPS power cord, sunglasses, house keys, etc.  If traveling this season take some time to prep your car for the drive. Below are a few things you can do at home to ensure a smooth and safe trip. 
  • Check your air pressure. Keeping them within spec will help ensure correct handling, load capacity, mileage, and tire wear. We have a great selection of accurate air gauges to ensure the tires are up to recommended pressure. Don't forget the spare tire! 
  • Check your tire tread depth. As a tire wears it's important to realize that the tire's ability to perform in rain and snow will be reduced. With 2/32" of remaining tread depth, resistance to hydroplaning in the rain at highway speeds has been significantly reduced, and traction in snow has been virtually eliminated. If rain and wet roads are a concern, you should consider replacing your tires when they reach approximately 4/32" of remaining tread depth. We have a great tread depth gauge to measure with. You can also get a general idea by measuring with a coin.
  • Have your battery tested. Nothing's worse that getting the family and gear packed in the cold only to have the car not start. We have a wide selection of sizes from Braille to choose from.
  • Check condition of your wipers and lights. If you can't see... you can't drive. Check out our PIAA and Valeo wiper selection and PIAA lighting for your vision needs.
  • Make sure your wheels are properly torqued. The correct lug nut torque should be listed in your owners manual
    Double checking these few things can help your trip go a long way. We all know the holidays can be hectic, but if you're proactive, put safety first, and take your time the trip should be stress free.



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Accutire a Cool new Digital Air Gauge

Friday, July 17, 2009 by Chad Hocker
Just picked up the Accutire Digital Set Point Programmable Air Gauge and so far it's been a good buy.

Compared to the older gauge I had been using this air gauge is pretty cool. 
A few of the features I found helpful.
  • Large easy to read numbers Accutire Digital Air Guage
  • LED flashlight
  • Fits perfectly in my hand
  • 5 year warranty

The LED flashlight and the blue backlit LCD screen came in handy last night, as it was dusk before I was back outside to the check the pressure in my Michelin tires.  I know first thing in the morning is the best time to check air pressure when the tire is cool. However the first thing to do when you get a cool new product is to check it out right away.  The Accutire Digital SetPoint Programmable Air Gauge is also shown on Page 6 of  the Inside Track.
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