Tire pressure and fuel efficiency
This is how tire pressure affects fuel consumption, braking distance, and the lifespan of the tires.
Incorrect tire pressure is one of the most common faults in Norwegian cars. It affects both safety and your wallet, and is a relevant topic on the theory test.
Why Tire Pressure is Important
| Too low pressure | Too high pressure |
|---|---|
| Increased rolling resistance | Less contact area with the road |
| Higher fuel consumption | Firmer ride comfort |
| Uneven wear on the edges | Uneven wear in the center |
| Longer braking distance | Reduced grip in turns |
| Risk of tire blowout at high speed | Reduced cushioning of bumps |
Correct Tire Pressure
Recommended tire pressure can be found:
- In the car’s manual
- On a label in the door frame or inside the fuel cap
- Indicated in bar or psi
Pressure varies by car model, tire size, and load. With a full load or heavy payload , the pressure should be increased according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Checking Tire Pressure
- Check the pressure at least once a month
- Always measure on cold tires (not immediately after driving)
- Check all four tires plus the spare tire
- Use a reliable tire pressure gauge or pumps at gas stations
Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)
New cars have TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) that alerts with a warning light if the pressure is too low. The system does not replace manual checks but provides an extra safety margin.
Tire Pressure and Fuel
A tire pressure that is 0.5 bar too low can increase fuel consumption by up to 5%. Over a year, this results in significant extra costs and higher CO₂ emissions . Correct tire pressure is thus an easy part of environmentally friendly driving .
Temperature and Tire Pressure
Tire pressure changes with temperature. When it gets colder, the pressure drops. Check tire pressure extra carefully during seasonal changes and when switching between summer and winter tires .
Further Reading
- Tire types and tire requirements about legal requirements for tread depth and tire replacement
- Daily vehicle check for daily checking of tires and pressure
- Fuel consumption and CO₂ about factors affecting consumption
- Gross weight and payload about adjusting tire pressure with heavy loads
- Visibility and windshield wipers as part of the daily check
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