Tyre Pressure Myths That Could Be Costing You Fuel

Most drivers don't think about their tyre pressure until a warning light appears.

That's understandable. If the tyres look fine, it's easy to assume everything is fine too.

The trouble is that tyres don't have to look flat to be underinflated. Even being a little below the recommended pressure can affect how your car drives, how much fuel it uses and how quickly your tyres wear out.

We check tyre pressures every week for customers around Blacktown, and it's surprising how often they're not where they should be.

Let's clear up a few myths that catch drivers out.

Myth #1: "If My Tyres Look Fine, The Pressure Must Be Fine"

This is probably the biggest misconception.

Modern tyres can lose pressure gradually without looking noticeably flat.

By the time you can see a tyre has low pressure, it's often well below where it should be.

That's why a visual check isn't enough.

The only way to know for sure is to use a tyre pressure gauge.

Myth #2: "A Few PSI Won't Make Much Difference"

It doesn't take a huge drop in pressure to affect your tyres.

When there's less air inside the tyre, more rubber comes into contact with the road.

That creates extra rolling resistance.

Your engine has to work harder to keep the car moving, which means using more fuel.

It also creates extra heat inside the tyre, speeding up wear over time.

Myth #3: "Higher Tyre Pressure Means Better Fuel Economy"

Some drivers intentionally inflate their tyres above the recommended pressure because they've heard it improves fuel efficiency.

While slightly higher pressure can reduce rolling resistance, overinflating your tyres creates other problems.

The centre of the tread wears out faster.

Grip can be reduced, especially on wet roads.

The ride becomes harsher, and the tyres are more vulnerable to damage from potholes and kerbs.

The recommended pressure is there for a reason.

Myth #4: "Tyre Pressure Never Changes"

Tyre pressure changes more often than people realise.

It can be affected by:

• Changes in temperature
• Long highway trips
• Heavy loads
• Natural air loss over time

That's why checking your tyre pressure once every few months usually isn't enough.

A monthly check is a much better habit.

Myth #5: "The Number on the Tyre Is the Right Pressure"

The pressure printed on the sidewall isn't the pressure your tyres should be running.

It's the maximum pressure the tyre is designed to handle.

Your vehicle manufacturer recommends the correct pressure based on the weight and design of your car.

You'll usually find that information:

• Inside the driver's door opening
• In the owner's manual
• Sometimes inside the fuel filler flap

If you're unsure, we can help you find the correct setting.

Myth #6: "Tyre Pressure Only Affects Tyre Life"

Tyre pressure affects much more than the tread.

Incorrect pressure can influence:

• Fuel consumption
• Braking performance
• Steering response
• Ride comfort
• Wet weather grip
• Overall handling

It's one of the simplest maintenance checks you can do, but it has an impact on almost every part of your driving experience.

Why Do Tyres Lose Pressure?

Even perfectly healthy tyres lose a small amount of air over time.

That's completely normal.

Pressure can also drop because of:

• Small punctures
• Damaged valves
• Kerb impacts
• Changes in weather

If one tyre constantly loses pressure while the others don't, it's worth having it inspected.

How Often Should You Check Tyre Pressure?

We generally recommend checking your tyre pressure about once a month.

It's also a good idea before:

• A long road trip
• Carrying heavy loads
• Towing a trailer
• Driving during holiday periods

Checking the pressure only takes a few minutes and can help prevent much bigger problems later.

What Happens If You Ignore It?

Running on incorrect tyre pressure for long periods can lead to:

• Faster tyre wear
• Reduced fuel economy
• Poor handling
• Longer stopping distances
• Higher chance of tyre damage

These problems usually develop gradually, which is why many drivers don't notice them straight away.

By the time they do, the tyres may already be wearing unevenly.

Questions We Hear All the Time

Q- How often should I check my tyre pressure?

A- Once a month is a good routine, along with checking before long trips.

Q- Should I check tyre pressure when the tyres are cold?

A- Yes. You'll get the most accurate reading before you've driven very far.

Q- Can incorrect tyre pressure increase fuel consumption?

A- Yes. Underinflated tyres create more rolling resistance, so the engine has to work harder.

Q- Why does one tyre keep losing pressure?

A- It could be a slow puncture, a leaking valve or damage to the wheel. A quick inspection will usually identify the cause.

Q- Will my tyre pressure change during winter?

A- Yes. Cooler temperatures can reduce tyre pressure, so it's worth checking it more often during seasonal changes.

A Simple Pressure Check Can Save More Than Fuel

Keeping your tyres at the correct pressure is one of the easiest ways to look after your car.

It helps your tyres last longer, improves fuel economy and gives your vehicle the grip it was designed to have.

If you're not sure whether your tyre pressures are correct, or you've noticed one tyre losing air more quickly than the others, drop into Goodyear Autocare Blacktown.

We'll check them, explain what we find in plain English and help keep your car driving the way it should.