Checking Your Tire Pressure Regularly During the Summer Months Is Crucial to Highway Safety

Tire failure caused by tread separations, blowouts, bald tires, and underinflated tires leads to approximately 11,000 crashes every year

Hot summer temperatures and underinflated tires form a dangerous combination that contributes to nearly 11,000 crashes annually, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. When highway speeds and pavement heat add to friction within a low pressure tire, the sidewalls flex excessively, generating internal heat that can cause tread separation or a blowout. Regular pressure checks, proper maintenance and timely replacement of worn tires reduce the risk of a roadside emergency and protect everyone on the road.

Why Heat and Underinflation Create Risk

Every 10 degrees Fahrenheit increase in ambient temperature can raise tire pressure by about 1 PSI. During a long highway drive on a 100 degree day, a tire inflated to 32 PSI cold may rise above 36 PSI hot. If that same tire starts underinflated at 28 PSI, the extra flex from driving load amplifies internal heat and fatigue. Underinflated tires also have more contact area with the road, causing uneven wear, reduced steering precision and longer stopping distances.

The Stakes: Crashes, Injuries and Costs

The NHTSA estimates tire failures contribute to 11,000 crashes each year and more than 300 fatalities. Beyond the risk of collision, a sudden blowout can send drivers into other lanes or off the roadway. Repairing damage from a single tire failure can exceed $1,000 when accounting for vehicle repairs and towing. Underinflation also reduces fuel economy by up to 3.3 percent, costing a driver an extra $50 over 10,000 miles and increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems and Tools

Since 2007 every new passenger vehicle must include a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Direct TPMS uses sensors inside each wheel to report exact pressures. Indirect TPMS infers low pressure from wheel speed differences. If a TPMS warning light appears on your dash, pull over safely and check pressures immediately. A simple digital gauge gives the most accurate reading. Keep a reliable handheld gauge in your glove box rather than relying solely on service station air pumps, which can be miscalibrated.

When and How to Check Tire Pressure

Always check tire pressures when tires are cold, before driving or at least three hours after parking. Remove the valve cap, press the gauge firmly and record the PSI. Compare to the manufacturer’s recommendation found on the driver’s door placard or owner’s manual. Inflate each tire to its recommended cold PSI and reinstall valve caps. Don’t overinflate to compensate for heat increases; the goal is correct cold pressure so the hot pressure rises into the safe range.

Maintaining Proper Tire Health

Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even wear. Check wheel alignment and balance annually or whenever you feel vibration or pulling. Uneven wear patterns such as feathering, cupping or scalloping can signal misalignment or worn suspension components. Address these issues promptly to extend tire life and maintain safe handling. Inspect sidewalls for cracks, bulges or foreign objects that can weaken the tire structure.

Replacement and Tread Depth Guidelines

Federal law requires at least 2/32 inch of tread depth for tires to remain legal. However experts recommend replacing tires at 4/32 inch to ensure proper wet traction and aquaplaning resistance. The penny test is a quick check: insert a penny head first into the tread groove; if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head the tread is below 2/32 inch. For an added margin of safety in rain, use a quarter test, if Washington’s head is fully visible you should begin shopping for replacements.

Nitrogen Versus Air Inflation

Filling tires with nitrogen reduces moisture and pressure variation. Nitrogen molecules leak more slowly than oxygen, so pressure remains stable over time and reduces the need for frequent top ups. Moisture in compressed air can corrode rims and valveseads. While air is free and provides good service, drivers seeking maximum consistency may choose nitrogen fill for long trips or performance vehicles.

North Carolina Resources and Support

The North Carolina Department of Transportation offers free publications on tire safety and seasonal maintenance at local DMV offices. Motorists can enroll in the NCDOT Roadside Assistance Program for emergency services including tire change and fluid delivery. For questions on state tire regulations or to report unsafe highway conditions, call the NCDOT Customer Service Center at 1-877-368-4968.

Seasonal Considerations Beyond Summer

Temperature swings in fall and winter can cause pressure drops of 1 to 2 PSI for every 10 degree drop. Drivers should recheck tire pressures each season change. Cold weather also hardens rubber compounds, reducing grip. Keeping tires at correct cold pressure ensures safety year-round and prevents overloading or underinflation when temperatures fall.

Tips to Maximize Highway Safety

• Check tire pressure monthly and before any long trip.
• Carry a dependable digital gauge and portable air compressor in your vehicle.
• Replace tires in matched sets or at least axle pairs to maintain balanced handling.
• Inspect tires for cuts, bulges or embedded debris every oil change.
• Follow vehicle manufacturer guidelines for load capacity to avoid overinflation or underinflation.
• Respond promptly to TPMS warnings and schedule professional service if the light fails to turn off after inflation.
• Keep records of pressure checks and maintenance to spot trends in air loss or wear patterns.

By checking and maintaining proper tire pressure you reduce the risk of blowouts, improve fuel economy and extend tire life. A few minutes spent with a gauge can prevent a dangerous failure and keep you safe on North Carolina highways and beyond.