Tire Air Pressure and Treadwear

While you probably know that tire inflation is important because it impacts fuel efficiency and even handling. But did you know that it also directly affects your tire's treadwear? We'll run down the irregular wear patterns resulting from improper methods of inflation.

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PROPER INFLATION

So, how does air pressure impact tire wear? The air in your tires actually supports the weight of your vehicle, so properly inflated tires allow for an even distribution of load across the contact patch of each tire.

Proper inflation provides the best tire performance, fuel efficiency and treadwear. When tires aren’t properly inflated, the load of the vehicle isn’t distributed evenly across the face of the tire, distorting the contact patch. Driving on underinflated or overinflated tires for an extended period can lead to irregular treadwear.

UNDERINFLATION

So, what does underinflated tire wear look like?

When tires are underinflated, the weight of the vehicle is put on the tires' sidewalls and causes them to bulge excessively. This also pulls the center tread area of the tires up and away from the road and forces the load of the vehicle onto the shoulders of the tire.

This means that driving on underinflated tires for too long will result in excessive wear on the tires' shoulders, reducing the tires' overall tread life. Driving on underinflated tires can also cause excessive heat buildup in the sidewalls, leading to serious and irreparable sidewall damage.

Diagram of wear pattern on underinflated tire

OVERINFLATION

When it comes to overinflated tire wear, the signs are pretty clear.

Overinflated tires cause the center tread area to balloon outward, reducing the contact patch and forcing the center area to support the weight of the vehicle. Continual driving on overinflated tires can cause irregular tread wear and reduce their tread life.

Diagram of wear pattern on overinflated tire

To maximize your tires’ tread life, it is best to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended air pressure, which helps ensure an even distribution of load across the face of each tire, improve fuel efficiency, and optimize tire performance.

Think your tires might not be properly inflated? Learn how to check and adjust your tire pressure or stop by your local America's Tire store for a free air check.

If it looks like you’re already in the market for a new set of tires, be sure to buy and book online to get a shorter wait time in-store!

If you have any other questions about tire air pressure and treadwear, or anything tire related, stop by your nearest store or schedule an appointment, and we'll get you taken care of!