Tire pressure is a crucial part of vehicle maintenance, and while your mechanic probably checks the tire pressure whenever you bring your car in for an oil change or a tune up, you should also be vigilant about checking it. This is because properly inflated tires improve your car's handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. Since the importance of tire pressure has come under public attention, there have been moves to urge service stations to check customers' tires upon every visit. However, this is neither fully sufficient nor fully practical. Lower than ideal pressure on even one of your vehicle's tires can cause problems with balance, it can increase the amount of gas your car consumes, and it can cause your tires and wheel components to wear unevenly.
Developments in car safety technology are being made to introduce a pressure sensor that will let drivers know via the control panel when their tires need air. Some of these devices can work in tandem with your car's navigational system to point you to the nearest service station. Studies have shown that the bulk of highway accidents involving large passenger vans are due to issues with the tires, often combined with poor weight distribution. Whether the tires on these vans are not suited for the weight they usually bear, or the air pressure in the tires is too low, the tire pressure is a factor.
Ideally you should check in with your mechanic every time you go on a long driving trip, and it pays to mention it if you plan to carry multiple passengers or heavy cargo. For example, if you are in a band with several other people and you plan to drive out of town with all of your equipment in tow, your tire pressure needs might be different than they would if you were just driving alone.
Likewise, if you are driving on dirt and gravel roads, your ideal tire pressure will be somewhat lower than if your stick to smooth pavement. And all kinds of other factors come into play where tire pressure is concerned: weather conditions, traffic conditions, and elevation are a few. In addition to greater safety, more uniform wear and tear, and increased safety, maintaining proper air pressure in your tires will afford you a quieter, smoother ride; improved alignment; and better performance from your brakes. The best thing you can do is talk to the people at your service station about proper tire pressure. More than likely they will sell, or simply give, you a tire pressure gage along with some pointers or a pamphlet that explains what you, the consumer, should know about air pressure. This will be an increased concern if you have elected to put custom wheels on your car.
Whether you are customizing for appearance of performance, always check with a trusted mechanic whether the wheels you want are actually rated for you an your vehicle's needs. Having the wrong tires on your car can have treacherous results.
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