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While tire pressure shouldn’t be ignored, experts say it depends on how long the cold weather will stick around.
WASHINGTON — When cold weather is in the forecast, taking care of your vehicle might be one of the first things that comes to mind.
You might consider letting your engine warm up before driving or checking that your defrost is working effectively. But what if that little, orange tire pressure light turns on? What should you do then?
Why does tire pressure drop in the cold?
As experts explain, lower tire pressure in cold weather is completely normal. It’s likely that air is not leaking from your tires.
Firestone Complete Auto Care explains that low temperatures often mean low tire pressure because molecules in the air move more slowly and huddle together. Tires lose or gain 1 to 2 PSI (pounds per square inch) for every 10-degree Fahrenheit change in temperature.
Les Schwab Tires explains that air pressure is important during the winter months because the wrong amount can cost hundreds of dollars in lost fuel economy and premature tire wear.
You can add some air to your tires while the cold weather sticks around, but there’s no need to panic, especially if the cold snap only lasts a couple of days.
If the tire pressure light is on, should I act immediately?
In cases of low tire pressure, you might notice a light that pops up on your dashboard notifying you to fix it.
The Bradenton, Florida, Police Department reminded drivers that their tires “are probably fine” because the cold air that causes lower pressure is temporary.
Firestone explains that tire pressure can bounce back after cold spells pass.
“If this happens to you, take a breath (and a sip of coffee), buckle your seatbelt, and carry on,” Bradenton Police wrote on Facebook.
Jennifer Campbell-Hicks contributed to this report.
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