Temperature significantly impacts tire pressure. As temperatures drop, the air molecules inside a tire contract, reducing the volume they occupy and leading to lower pressure readings. For example, a tire inflated to 35 psi at 70F might register closer to 30 psi at 30F. This phenomenon is not a loss of air, but a change in air density due to thermal contraction.
Understanding the relationship between temperature and tire pressure is crucial for vehicle safety and performance. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency and accelerating tire wear. More importantly, they compromise handling and braking, increasing the risk of accidents, especially in adverse winter conditions. Historically, this effect became more noticeable with the widespread adoption of pneumatic tires, making temperature compensation a necessary consideration in tire maintenance.
