Colder temperatures could cause problems for your vehicle
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Parts of Mid-Missouri could see their first chance of snowfall this weekend, but with colder temperatures approaching, comes the need to double-check the car, before hitting the road.
According to TIRECRAFT, tire pressure can decrease by about one pound per square inch for every 10 degrees the temperature drops. Most vehicles have a tire pressure monitoring system light that will turn on when tires need air. However, this light will only come on when tires are at least 25% below the correct amount of air pressure.
Due to this, car experts say people should be proactive this winter season, rather than reactive.
TIRECRAFT recommends checking the tire pressure once a month, which can be done using a tire pressure gauge. People should remove the cap from the tire valve, make sure the measurement stick is completely inside the tire gauge and place the open end of the gauge over the tire valve system.
Once the measurement stick extends out, read the PSI reading on the far right end of the stick, according to TIRECRAFT. This process should be repeated two to three times to ensure it is accurate.
According to Discount Tire, most vehicles PSI should be between 30 and 35.
Under-inflated tires is the leading cause of tire failure, according to TIRECRAFT. Not having enough air can lead to rubber from the tires touching the road, which can cause overheating, tread separation and blowouts.
It can also affect braking and the steering of a vehicle, and poor gas mileage. This in turn could cost a person more to fill up your vehicle with gas. It is recommended people head to their local gas station to top off, or fill their vehicle with air when necessary, which can typically be done for free.
According to AAA, when preparing a vehicle for the winter, people should also check, and change the oil and oil filter of a vehicle as recommended, depending on the manufacturer. The headlights of vehicles should also be checked to ensure one isn't blown out, as well as having the exhaust system examined.
Older vehicles should have their batteries tested as well. Worn windshield wipers should be replaced, along with filling the windshield washer system with winter solvent.
