Under inflated tyres

How under inflated tyres can affect a vehicle

Under inflated tyres can become very dangerous to yourself and other road users if not identified early. By identifying tyre deflation early, it ensures you can begin carrying out the correct procedures for your tyres to be road ready in a safe way.

How do under inflated tyres affect my vehicle?

4 of the main systems that are compromised when tyres are under inflated include fuel consumption, braking, tyre wear and steering. In order to prevent any of these vehicle systems, regular tyre checks each month should be carried out.

Reduced steering performance

As previously stated, under inflated tyres reduces the steering control of a vehicle. Rubber tyres have more slack when they under inflated due to the reduced pressure within, it makes steering much more difficult, especially at speed. If you feel you’re making larger movements when steering than usual, it may be time to check your tyres.

Increasing the fuel usage

If you’re noticing that your vehicle needs flying up a lot more than usual, it may be down to the tyres. Under inflated tyres cause the engine of your vehicle to work harder to travel at the same speeds, this drains fuel much quicker.

Shorter tyre lifespan

Under inflated tyres can reduce a tread life up to 30%. New tyres can be an expensive replacement, making it essential to maintain them as best as possible.

What can cause under inflated tyres?

Cooler temperatures in winter months can have an impact on tyre pressure
Contact with potholes, socially at higher speeds
Sharp items such as nails that can embed into the tyre
Cuts from debris on roads
Naturally losing air with wear and tear, a vehicle can lose up to 2psi each month