Van tyres are one of the most important factors affecting a commercial vehicle's performance. The larger the size and additional load, the more pressure you need on your tyres to drive safely. If you're transporting things like furniture, assembly/repair, moving, and certain types of freight, it is important to maintain carefully maintained tyre pressure levels so that everything fits into place easily and smoothly. Keeping tyre pressures at the proper level is a must for driving the best van tyres possible.
IMPORTANCE OF CORRECT TYRE PRESSURE
Proper tyre pressure can't be overstated. The correct tyre pressure distributes your vehicle's weight evenly throughout the tread pattern to keep your vehicle stable. Tyres with incorrect pressure are more likely to fail, resulting in blowouts, erratic driving and inefficient fuel consumption. Overinflated or underinflated tyres lose stability, resulting in poor handling, steering and brake performance. The tyre will also wear unevenly, leading to a dangerous situation.
A safe and comfortable ride requires the correct tyre pressure. Plus, properly inflated van tyres tend to last longer than under-inflated ones.
Also, keep in mind that tyre pressures should be adjusted according to the type of vehicle. For example, a van carrying heavy loads needs higher tyre pressure than a van carrying light loads.
If you're unsure of your vehicle's tyre pressure, consult the owner's manual or contact a professional. Inflating your tyres properly will save you money in the long run and protect you from road hazards.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY TYRE PRESSURES ARE TOO HIGH?
COMPROMISED SAFETY ON THE ROAD
When your van tyres are inflated incorrectly, they aren't just inefficient. This poses a severe safety risk as well, especially at high speeds.
Overinflated tyres can negatively affect:
- Ride comfort
- Handling
- Braking performance
- Steering
- Directional stability of a vehicle
- Fuel economy
Driving on wet, slippery roads with overinflated, stiff tyres is dangerous since braking is drastically reduced. When a tyre blows out, you may lose control of your vehicle and have a shorter stopping distance, putting you and others at risk. This may result in a harsher ride, resulting in a higher blowout risk and the potential for skidding.
It's also worth noting that many of your vehicle's safety features, including anti-lock brakes, function properly when tyres are filled according to the manufacturer's instructions. Your car's driver assistance systems can be compromised if the tyres are overinflated.
Moreover, overinflated tyres wear out prematurely in their centres. This may result in less efficient braking, a smaller contact area between the tyre and the road and less even tread wear.
TYRE WEAR AND TEAR
It is possible to damage your all-terrain van tyres if you overinflate them. When filled, tyres become stiff and inflexible, making them more likely to be damaged by potholes, curbs or debris. The ride will also be bumpy, which is not pleasant at all.
A tyre with too much air pressure may also become distorted, decreasing traction and causing the tyre's centre to wear prematurely. Overinflated tyres wear out more rapidly if they are repeatedly overinflated.
So ideally, you want to stay at your car's manufacturer-recommended cold tyre pressure.
WHEN TO INCREASE TYRE PRESSURE?
Heavy loads usually require you to inflate your tyres above their normal pressure. The handbook for your vehicle will specify the appropriate pressure.
It is important to note that every tyre has a maximum air pressure and weight capacity. Ensure you don't exceed this level, or your sidewalls will bulge excessively. Sidewall bulges create excess heat, leading to tyre blowouts. As a result, your tyre will stick out and eventually flatten. So check your tyres' maximum load and maximum pressure to avoid overfilling them, especially when temporarily loading your vehicle with additional weight.
When the weight of your vehicle returns to normal, and you're no longer carrying heavy loads, it is essential to reduce the pressure in your tyres. Every car has its specific PSI level or amount of air per square inch requirements for proper tyre inflation. It is vital to maintain this level at all times to avoid excessive wear or blowouts.
Adding more air to your tyres can make them more stable when you have excess weight in the trunk or cabin. If you're carrying additional weight, adding a little extra air may be beneficial, but only to a certain extent. If adding air, ensure the PSI matches between the front and back tyres for a smooth, stable ride. Tyres with uneven air pressure can cause serious problems and even accidents.
So ensure you follow the maximum PSI and weight recommended on your tyres and do not add more air than recommended.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR TYRE PRESSURE IS RIGHT?
Are you having trouble checking your Citroen Berlingo van tyre pressure or the air pressure of your all-season van tyres? In case you don't know how to check your tyres' air pressure, here's what you need to know.
First, ensure that the pressure gauge you use matches the pressure guidelines given for your car.
As soon as you have a pressure gauge that suits your needs, unscrew the valve dust cap and attach the gauge to the stem of the valve. Ensure you press down the gauge evenly for an accurate reading. Then, check your tyre pressure gauge to determine whether you should deflate or inflate them.
All four tyres should be checked on your car, as tyre pressure can vary greatly. If you need to inflate your tyres, use the appropriate pump and avoid overinflating the tyres. In case of the opposite, and your tyres need deflating, use a flathead screwdriver to press the metal pin on the valve stem until the air is released. When inflating and deflating, use the pressure gauge regularly.
GET THE BEST TYRES FOR YOUR CAR WITH IMPERIAL TYRES
At Imperial Tyres, we ensure your vehicle is fitted with the highest-quality tyres. We have a wide range of tyres available to suit a host of different vehicles. Get the best tyres your car needs today with our tyre booking service.