Correct tyre pressure is one of the key factors affecting not only driving safety but also the vehicle’s economy. Despite its simplicity, this parameter is often ignored by drivers, putting themselves and other road users at risk.
Why is tyre pressure so important?
According to the European Transport Safety Council, around 35% of cars drive around with incorrect tyre pressure every day. This leads to
- poor handling;
- longer braking distances;
- increased risk of tyre damage.
Experts from the German automobile club ADAC confirm that even a slight deviation from the recommended tyre pressure increases the braking distance on wet roads by about 10-15%.
How does tyre pressure affect fuel consumption?
Under-inflated tyres deform more while driving. This increases rolling resistance, which has a direct impact on fuel consumption. Research by the British motoring association RAC has shown that lowering tyre pressure by 0.5 bar leads to an increase in fuel consumption of about 5-7%.
So checking tyre pressure not only improves safety, but also helps you save money by reducing fuel costs.
Effects of excessive tyre pressure
Excessive tyre pressure can also have negative effects. Over-inflated tyres absorb road bumps less effectively, resulting in reduced driving comfort and accelerated wear of the centre tread. In addition, over-inflated tyres can lose traction with the road surface, especially in rainy weather, increasing the likelihood of skidding.
Impact on tyre life
Correct tyre pressure not only reduces fuel consumption and improves safety, but also significantly extends the life of tyres. According to a study by Michelin, regularly driving on under-inflated tyres reduces their lifespan by around 20-25%. This is due to accelerated wear of the sidewall and an increased risk of damage. For more information on tyres, visit autodoc.co.uk.
Recommendations for checking tyre pressure
Specialists recommend
- checking the pressure at least once a month
- always measuring the pressure of cold tyres before driving off
- Use the values recommended by the vehicle manufacturer (these can usually be found on the inside of the fuel filler flap or in the operating manual).Table of the effect of tyre pressure on fuel consumption
| Pressure Deviation | Increase in Fuel Consumption (%) |
|---|---|
| -0.2 bar | ~1–2% |
| -0.5 bar | ~5–7% |
| -1.0 bar | up to 10–12% |
Expert opinions
According to Tomasz Janowski, automotive expert at AutoExpert, ‘regularly checking tyre pressure is not a fad, but a necessity. Ignoring this parameter can lead not only to increased costs, but also to more serious consequences, such as road accidents’.
Conclusion
By following simple guidelines for monitoring tyre pressure, drivers can significantly improve the safety of their journeys and also reduce fuel costs. After all, correct tyre pressure is not only good for your wallet, but also for the life and health of all road users.
