Factors Affecting Pressure

The air pressure in your tires and tire tread life are affected by temperature, road conditions and driving speed.

Tires are permeable and can lose up to 2 psi per month. More air is lost in hot weather as the pores in the tire material expand. To maintain proper inflation levels, measure the air pressure in your vehicle's tires at least once a month.

Changes in ambient temperature cause changes in tire pressure. This is particularly important in Canada's climate where temperature swings of 20 to 30ºC are not uncommon. Every 5ºC change in temperature results in about 1 psi change in pressure, so a temperature drop of 15ºC would result in 10% or 3 psi under-inflation.

The type of road surface that you drive on most will affect the tire's life. Driving on rough, unpaved roads can cut your tire's life in half. Tread life also declines rapidly with increasing speed, wearing about 35 percent faster at 110 km/h than at 80 km/h.

Impact of Speed on Tire Wear

Driving fast is well known to increase fuel consumption. It will also substantially reduce the life of your tires.

Premature tire wear can also be caused by numerous mechanical conditions in your car. Worn or loose steering or suspension parts, misalignment and improper mounting and balancing can all contribute to premature tire wear.