You depend on your vehicle to complete daily responsibilities. However, it requires proper care to ensure it performs optimally. Tire maintenance is especially important, as it can also affect your safety while on the road. Here are a few reasons to check your pressure frequently.

How Can Proper Tire Inflation Benefit You?

1. Improved Gas Mileage

Fuel economy is a major concern for all drivers these days. When pressure is incorrect, more of the tread makes contact with the road. This increases friction and causes the vehicle to work harder when traveling the same distance. 

Tires must always be set to the pounds per square inch (psi) listed within the driver's side door jamb for optimum performance. This amount is the manufacturer's recommended psi. Avoid confusing it with the psi listed on the sidewall, which refers to the tire's maximum load capacity. 

2. Decreased Wear on Tread

Underinflation accelerates tire deterioration because of the part's continued contact with the road. When the tread wears unevenly, you'll need to schedule a replacement sooner than you would normally. 

These changes can be expensive, so you want to expand the life span of your tires as much as possible via proper upkeep. Along with increased costs, you also face a higher risk of a flat or blowout, which puts you and other drivers at risk. 

3. Enhanced Performance

Vehicle performance is another important concern when it comes to inflation. Proper psi ensures the tread grips the road when driving, allowing you to navigate turns and curves easily. Improved traction also enables the wheels to grip the road when stopping quickly, which is necessary if you encounter an unexpected hazard. While you should always avoid potholes, good tire pressure also cushions the rubber against bumps and defects in the road.

Whether you need a tire replacement or auto maintenance, the team at Alaskan Auto Center is ready to lend a hand. Serving customers throughout Anchorage for more than 15 years, these technicians provide essential automotive services to keep you on the road, including tire rotations and oil changes. Visit the website to learn more about their auto repair services. You can also speak with a mechanic today by calling (907) 522-7035.