The wheels are the only contact surface between the car and the road, so they must always be in optimal condition, starting with the correct tire pressure. However, in recent times a technique has become known that does because over-inflating them can have a favorable effect on fuel consumption. But yes, it carries significant risks…
Saving is not profitable
As you know, the wheels are an essential part of all cars, since, being the only part that touches the ground, they provide the vehicle with grip, stability and comfort, and of course without this element it would not be able to move. And it is that the tire is one of those responsible for the wheel being able to fulfill its main functions: traction, steering, damping…
For all this to be possible, the tire must be in good condition and its inflation pressure must be correct. However, and although it is always recommended that your pressure be adequate (neither more nor less), some drivers have used a technique that favorably influences the reduction of fuel consumption.
The truth is that yes, it works, but the savings are not profitable if you take into account that the chances of having an accident increase. Or what is the same; we can gain an advantage by doing a few more kilometers on one side, but the risk will also be there.
What should we know
In this, it is important to know that whether you have had your car stopped for a while or if you drive it frequently, it is convenient to check the condition of the wheels. And that doesn’t just include what it looks like on the outside: you have to pay attention to what’s inside. Because carrying more or less air than is adequate compromises driving, energy efficiency and safety.
It is true that there is no common and exact measurement of tire pressure for all cars. Each model requires a different air load marked by the manufacturer itself, which can also vary depending on driving circumstances.
To find out what air pressure our tires need, we must go to three places where it is usually indicated: on the driver’s door frame, on the fuel tank cap and, finally, in the user manual. This has led because among motorists the trick has been echoed that in order to reduce consumption , the tire pressure must be increased. And, although it is one of the most listened to (and it is not that it is false) it is completely counterproductive .
Excessive pressure to the wheels causes unstable behavior
The cause is simple; As the pressure increases, the tire deforms and has a smaller tread, less contact surface, so friction with the asphalt decreases and fuel consumption decreases . In fact, tire manufacturers insistently remind users of the importance of driving with the right pressures for several reasons, among which is this: if the tire is lowered it will have more contact with the road surface, more friction and, therefore, , more consumption.
In the opposite direction, excessive pressure causes unstable behavior of the vehicle , which is why it is also not convenient and is not allowed under any circumstances, even knowing that the efficiency could be higher.
In this sense, too, it is important that the more we use the car, the more the pressure tends to decrease . That is why it is advisable to check the tire pressure every two or three months. An essential tool for inflating tires to the correct pressure is the pressure gauge. If you are thinking of going to a gas station to inflate the tires of your car, you will find the pressure gauge attached to the pneumatic gun of the compressor.
Finally, there are more ecological versions of certain cars that use low-friction tires to achieve the emission targets that are set. However; doing it conscientiously to alter the pressures to achieve this same effect is not acceptable to anyone.