Make Driving Fun with Performance Tires & Wheels

Most drivers these days understand that it is important to monitor the tire pressure in their tires. Some problems that improperly inflated tires can cause include:

• Reduced fuel economy
• Irregular and/or rapid tire treadwear
• Reduced braking traction
• Tire failure from under-inflation
• Reduced corning traction and emergency handling

The good old days of simply kicking a tire sidewall to ensure it is properly inflated are over (and have been for a long time). In fact, with today's lower profile tires and tires with stiffer construction methods, not even a seasoned tire expert like myself can see if a tire is at the correct air pressure by simply looking at the tire. Many performance and run-flat tires could be under-inflated by 25% or more and not look any different from a properly inflated tire! Therefore, be sure to use a quality tread depth gauge to check your air pressure. And to better understand the importance of maintaining correct tire inflation pressure, read "Air Pressure - Correct, Underinflated and Overinflated."

It's recommended that you check your tire's air pressure at least once a month, and before any long trip. Who really marks their calender each month with a reminder to check tire pressure? Not many. However, you can use your smart phone to set up a reminder each month to make sure you check your pressure. And if that doesn't work, use the time at the gas station when you pull over to fill up to monitor the air pressure in your tires.

View all air and tread depth gauges.