Low Tire Pressure Light.

Tire pressure should be checked as temperatures drop

In Tires and Wheels by Steves Auto Repair and Tire

Temperatures are decreasing across the state. And so is the tire pressure of some vehicles.

With the cooler months quickly approaching, drivers are advised to check their pressure of their car’s tires.

When to check tire pressure

Tire pressure should be checked a couple of times a year, or during an oil change, according to Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire Owner Scott Whitling.

“When you check your tire pressure and they’re all equally low, it’s just because of the change of temperature,” Whitling said.

If motorists notice that the pressure of one tire is much lower than the rest, it’s important to have it checked. It could be the result of a leak.

Drivers shouldn’t travel for long distances after their vehicle notifies them of the low tire pressure.

“It causes extra wear on the tires,” Whitling said. “Also, when it comes down to handling and emergency stops, you want those tires performing correctly. You don’t want them being too soft or too flexible, where they’re not able to really do their job.”

Some travelers fill their tires with Nitrogen, which can help keep pressure more consistent than air.

“If it’s needed, you can go ahead and put air in with the Nitrogen,” Whitling said. “When you are able to, go to your service center — like Steve’s Auto Repair and Tire — and we can do the Nitrogen recharge for you.”

Whitling suggests individuals who use Nitrogen to adjust the pressure this time of year because of the temperature change.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.