Yes, cold weather can affect your tire pressure. Here’s what happens

ORLANDO, Fla. – Fall and winter in Florida is a time when we take a ride on the weather roller coaster.

One day temperatures rise and the next they fall.

(RELATED: Frost and Freeze Warnings for Central Florida. Here you can find out how long the cold expansion lasts)

Sometimes a cold front can bring a few cool nights and nice afternoons. Did you know that this change in temperature can cause tire pressure to fluctuate?

HOW IT WORKS

As a general rule of thumb, for every 10 degrees of temperature change, the pressure in the tire changes by 1 or 2 PSI.

After a cold front, when temperatures drop, the air in the tire takes up less volume than when it’s hot outside, and the air in the tire takes up more volume.

This can cause the computer in the car to show low pressure, which assumes that there is little air left in the car tires, also known as the little light on the dashboard that has a U with an exclamation mark in the middle, that appears. This is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System or TPMS light. As the car starts moving, the tires begin to warm up, causing the pressure in the tires to increase by 1 PSI every five minutes for the first 15-20 minutes of movement.

(RELATED: That’s why it’s important to pay attention to tire pressure in cold temperatures)

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT

Tire pressure that is too low can pose a danger when driving. Think about it. Friction is created when driving, and under-inflated tires can cause increased wear and lower vehicle fuel efficiency. Low tire pressure can also lead to poor steering. When the road is wet, loss of steering control can create a dangerous situation on the road for you and other drivers.

Too high tire pressure will result in a bumpier ride or more serious consequences such as skidding or hydroplaning.

WHAT TO DO

Since tire manufacturers have a recommended PSI to optimize tire performance, it is recommended to check tire pressure regularly. All you need is a handy tire pressure gauge, which you can find at most gas stations and convenience stores. Even if the weather doesn’t change much, tires can gradually deflate over time, even if there is no leak. By simply checking your tires regularly, you can get the most bang for your buck from this task and extend the life of tires, which we can all agree are expensive.

When a cold front passes, think about how much the temperature drops behind the front. You may need to add some air. Also keep in mind that the TPMS may not trigger until the tires are significantly under-inflated. This makes it a good idea to check tire pressure manually. Additionally, you may be able to discover a minor problem that would otherwise go undetected and be more cost-effective to fix before it becomes a larger and more expensive problem.

PRO TIP

The tire manufacturer’s recommended PSI is set when the tires are cool. It’s best to inflate tires when they’re cool, but most people don’t have a way to inflate tires at home. Before you leave the house, check the tire pressure of each tire. When you get to the gas station, check the pressure in each tire again. Remember that the tires are now warm and the air pressure has changed as the air inside takes up more space. Add the amount needed based on the first reading.

One more thing. The pressures shown apply to the tire size originally fitted to the vehicle. This is also listed on the sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb, in the fuel filler flap, in the glove compartment or in the vehicle manual. If wheels and tires of different sizes have been installed, the pressures specified are not necessarily optimal. If you are ever unsure, it is best to contact a tire specialist.

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