Even the most attentive people can easily make a mistake when it comes to car maintenance. An excellent example is the basic act of inflating tires. This can give rise to a simple but impactful error known as overinflation. Whether it's due to a faulty pressure gauge, a momentary distraction or a misunderstanding of the recommended pressure, putting too much air in your tires is a surprisingly easy mistake.
What happens if you put too much air in your tires?
Over-inflated tires can affect a tire's performance and lifespan. However, one of the main problems is the unwanted arrival of premature wear. When a tire has too much air, the weight of the vehicle rests in the center of the tread. Therefore, this uneven distribution of pressure causes this part of the tire to wear out more quickly. Excess air also results in a harder tire surface. This compromises your ability to grip the road effectively. This reduction in traction can be particularly noticeable in tight corners or during quick stops. There, ideal grip is crucial for vehicle control.
Wear from an over-inflated tire increases the risk of punctures and blowouts
Excess pressure inside the tire puts additional stress on its structure, making it more vulnerable to damage from road hazards like sharp nails or, even worse, potholes. Another very significant safety issue arises when rain or snow is a factor. The tires arrive with treads to disperse water and prevent hydroplaning. However, overinflation and reduced traction dangerously limit the contact area with the road surface. This increases the chances of losing control in wet conditions. All because they are less effective at channeling water and maintaining a stable grip on the pavement. Not only will the price of excess air cost consumers a trip to the store to replace damaged tires, it also has the potential to put the car and everyone involved at risk.
It can cost consumers more than just a new tire
Overinflation can represent more than just the risk of having to buy new tires. When overinflated, tires cannot effectively absorb road shocks. This places additional stress on the suspension system over time, with increased pressure potentially leading to unsettling levels of deterioration. The lack of flexibility that a tire experiences when it is overinflated also makes it less able to absorb impacts from bumps or other obstructions in the road. Thus, the force and pressure from the streets and terrain pass directly to the wheel. With little help from the tire, it allows dents or cracks to occur that require expensive wheel replacement.
However, paying to repair or replace parts damaged by overinflated tires is not the only thing drivers will have to do if they are not careful. The car's fuel efficiency can also be affected. When the tires are not at the ideal inflation level, the engine is forced to work harder to move the car. This increased effort results in more frequent trips to the gas pump and a heavier financial burden for the vehicle owner. Therefore, maintaining correct tire pressure is essential not only for safety, but also to preserve the overall health and profitability of the vehicle.