Tires play a crucial role in a car's performance, as they directly interact with the road and collaborate with the suspension to absorb the car's movements.
Typically containing various chemicals and additives, tires are vital for ensuring the safety, comfort, and efficiency of a vehicle.
One key aspect influencing these factors is the air pressure within the tires, making it essential to pay attention to tire inflation.
Precautions for Tire Inflation
1. Prioritize Safety by Regularly Checking Air Pressure
When inflating tires, prioritize safety. Before each inflation, utilize an air pressure gauge to prevent accidents like tire bursts caused by over-inflation. Remember, even a small oversight can result in irreversible consequences.
2. Allow Tires to Cool Down Before Inflation
After prolonged driving, the tire temperature rises, impacting air pressure accuracy. To obtain precise air pressure data, wait for the tires to cool down after stopping the vehicle before inflating them.
3. Ensure Valve Integrity
Before inflating, meticulously inspect the valve and valve core for any irregularities. Unevenness, convexity, or defects in the valve can affect inflation accuracy and air pressure measurement.
4. Maintain Cleanliness Before Inflation
When adding air, ensure that it is free from moisture and oil that could harm the tire's inner tube rubber. Keeping it dry and clean is crucial for ensuring the prolonged life of your tires.
5. Adhere to Standard Inflation Pressure
Avoid exceeding the recommended inflation pressure for the tire. Over-inflating, especially after prolonged disuse, can lead to excessive stretching of the tire cord, diminishing its strength and affecting its lifespan.
6. Pay Attention to Valve Cleaning and Protection
Before inflation, clean the valves thoroughly, avoiding any loosening of valve cores. Post-inflation, use soapy water on the valve to detect potential air leakage (indicated by small bubbles). Ensure the valve cap is securely installed to prevent debris from entering.
7. Special Considerations for Radial Tire Inflation
Inflating radial tires require specific attention due to their larger sinking and grounding area. Contrary to common misconceptions, the correct practice is to use a standard air pressure gauge.
Radial tire air pressure should be higher than that of general tires by 0.05 to 0.15MPa.
8. Regularly Calibrate the Air Pressure Gauge
To maintain accurate air pressure readings, regularly calibrate the accompanying air pressure gauge. Accurate readings are crucial for the safety of both you and your vehicle, providing peace of mind during your travels.
Understanding the techniques and methods of tire inflation is indispensable for every car owner.
Regularly checking tire air pressure and addressing wear issues promptly ensures a safer, more comfortable, and economically efficient driving experience. Hence, it is recommended that car owners consistently monitor and maintain their tires to enjoy worry-free travel.