It’s that time of year again time to check the tires, that is.

Experts say that air pressure in a tire typically goes down 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change, so now is the perfect time to get those tires checked and to prepare for winter driving conditions. 

 This year – and regardless of tire brand or where the tires were bought - the good folks at Goodyear are offering what they’re calling a “Free Air” campaign. Motorists can have their tires inspected for free at any of the 650 Goodyear-owned stores, and at participating independently owned and operated locations across the country, too.

Goodyear reminds us that maintaining proper air pressure is one o the most important things motorists can do for their tires. Under inflation is detrimental and it causes increased tread wear on the shoulder area (outside edges) of the tire.  Tires which are improperly inflated can also reduce fuel economy since it can make the vehicle work harder.

The increasing usage of in-dash tire pressure monitor systems on new vehicles will likely help you take notice of tire pressure levels. If your vehicle doesn’t come equipped with a monitoring system for tires, you can find the proper air pressure for tires by looking in the owner’s manual, in the glove box or on the driver’s side door jamb.

Remember, if you live or will be traveling in severe winter regions, it’s a good idea to think about getting new winter tires or a set of new year-round tires, especially if it’s been a few years since you’ve had a set. 

Joey Viselli of Goodyear reminds us that the Farmers’ Almanac for the 2008-2009 winter calls for a numbing winter, with below-average temperatures for at least two-thirds of the country.  Only the Far West and Southeast will see near-normal temperatures. Precipitation-wise, most of the South, as well as the Midwest, should experience above-normal conditions, while the rest of the nation will average close to normal. With below-normal winter temperatures and an above-normal precipitation forecast, the Great Lakes and Midwest will see above-normal snowfalls, especially during January and February.”

I live in the Midwest and today it was actually spitting snow!

If you’re not sure how to check the tire pressure on your vehicle, you can get the details by reading this Cars for Girls article: How to Check Air Pressure in Tires.

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