Tire Pressure in Cold Weather

You prepare for winter. That’s why you tuck a pair of gloves into the pockets of your heavy coat, double-check your car’s defroster, and maybe even toss an ice scraper into your backseat. But what about your tires?

Many drivers don’t realize that cold weather has a direct impact on tire pressure and it’s one of the most important factors for staying safe on the road. When the temperature drops, so can tire pressure. This can lead to underinflated tires, which can compromise your vehicle’s safety, performance, and efficiency.

In this blog, we’ll go over how cold weather affects your tire pressure, why it matters, and how you can maintain proper tire pressure throughout the season.

How Cold Weather Affects Tire Pressure

Does tire pressure go down in the cold? Yes! It’s a scientific fact: When the temperature drops, air molecules slow down and compress, which reduces the pressure inside your tires. For every 10ºF decrease in temperature, tire pressure can drop by 1-2 PSI (pounds per square inch). This means that over a particularly cold weekend, if the mercury drops by 20ºF, your tires could lose as much as 4 PSI.

When you drive with underinflated tires, they may not grip the road as well. You may have less traction, which makes it easier to slip and slide on icy or wet roads. Stopping distances may also lengthen, making sudden stops a lot riskier. Add that to the already challenging winter driving conditions, and it’s easy to see why keeping an eye on your tire pressure is so important.

Why Proper Tire Pressure Matters in Cold Weather

Here’s why keeping your tires properly inflated matters when the temperatures drop:

 

• Better fuel efficiency: Did you know that underinflated tires can reduce your gas mileage? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, every 1 PSI drop can lower your gas mileage by 0.2%. Keeping your tires properly inflated can help you get the most out of every gallon.
• Improved safety: Underinflated tires can lengthen stopping distance and skid more easily on wet pavement. Keeping your tires at the right pressure provides better grip on icy or snowy roads, allowing you to safely maintain traction during those sharp turns or sudden stops.
• Longer tire life: Underinflation can lead to uneven wear and leave your tires vulnerable to damage, perhaps sending you tire shopping sooner. Keep your tires properly inflated so you get the most out of your investment.
• Enhanced performance: Correctly inflated tires help ensure your vehicle responds the way it should, from braking to cornering. You’ll have more confidence behind the wheel in tricky winter conditions.

How to Check Tire Pressure in Cold Weather

Always try to check your tire pressure when the tires are “cold” for the most accurate reading. This means checking them before the car has been driven for at least three hours or if you’ve only driven less than a mile. If your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light comes on, that’s another sign it’s time to check your tire pressure. Here's how to do it:

1. Locate the vehicle’s recommended tire pressure

The PSI for your specific vehicle can be found in the owner’s manual or on a placard attached to the driver’s door jamb, glove box, or fuel hatch. For most passenger cars, it usually falls between 30-35 PSI. If you can’t locate the information, just ask a trained Jiffy Lube^® technician during your next visit – they can access this information for you.

2. Measure your tire pressure before driving, not after, for the most accurate reading

This is referred to as “setting the cold tire pressure.” If the manufacturer recommends a tire pressure of 32 PSI, that means 32 PSI COLD, or before driving and the tires heat up.

3. Use a tire pressure gauge

You can purchase a tire gauge at most big box retailers, auto parts stores, or online. Pencil-style gauges, which are the least expensive, have a small stick that pops up with the tire pressure reading. Digital gauges may be a bit more expensive, but they’re extremely easy to use and more accurate.

4. Remove the valve stem cap

This is the black, blue, green, or silver screw cap on your wheel’s valve stem; it should be visible from the outside of your car. Turn it counterclockwise to remove it.

5. Check the tire pressure

Follow the instructions that come with the gauge. If you hear a hissing sound, the tire gauge may not be properly seated on the valve stem. Re-adjust the angle of the tire pressure gauge until the hissing stops.

Compare your reading against the specified PSI found above in Step 1. If your tires need to be inflated, go to Step 6. If the air pressure is higher than recommended, bleed off the pressure until the correct pressure is attained.

6. Inflate your tires if needed

There’s a good chance you’ll need to do this at least once this winter season. You can always bring your car to Jiffy Lube to inflate your tire pressure in cold weather. With more than 2,000 locations, there’s sure to be a service center near you.

You can also do it yourself. Find your nearest air pump (many gas stations have an air pump station). Add air until you reach the recommended tire pressure. Replace the valve stem cap by turning it clockwise.

7. Repeat the inflation process for each tire

Don’t forget the spare! You want to ensure it is properly inflated if you need it.

Tips for Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure in Winter

Taking care of your tires in the winter doesn’t have to be a hassle. Here are a few simple habits to help you handle low tire pressure in cold weather:

 

• Monitor regularly: Frequent temperature changes can cause pressure to fluctuate, so check your tire pressure at least once a month during winter.
• Tire maintenance: Schedule regular tire rotations, wheel balancing, and vehicle alignments. These services help prevent uneven wear and keep your tire pressure more stable over time.
• Consider winter tires: If you live in a place with icy or snowy roads, consider switching to winter tires. They’re less affected by temperature changes and provide improved traction, handling, and safety during harsh winter weather.

 

Tire Pressure Trouble? Jiffy Lube Has You Covered

From winter winds to summer scorchers and all temperatures in between, you can count on trained Jiffy Lube^® technicians to help you maintain the health of your tires. Look to the team at Jiffy Lube to:

 

• Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure (per the placard or owner’s manual)
• Check the tire treads for depth and condition
• Inspect the sidewalls (both inner and outer)
• Provide guidance when it’s time to buy new tires

 

Need an easy way to stay on top of tire pressure? Let us handle it during your regular oil changes or other routine services. It’s quick, convenient, and one less thing you’ll need to worry about.

Please note: Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube^® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube^® service center or visit jiffylube.com for specific services offered.

FIND YOUR LOCAL JIFFY LUBE