PROPER INFLATION
PROMOTES MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE, FUEL SAVINGS AND SERVICE LIFE
Tires are round and black
and come in different sizes, load carrying capacities and speed ratings.
A common error consumers make when adjusting tire inflation is to inflate their tires according to the maximum allowable inflation pressure written on the side of the tire. Many tires have inflation information written on the sidewall of the tire and the specification relates to the maximum allowable inflation. The proper inflation pressure is determined by your vehicle manufacturer and is available in your owner’s manual or on your tire placard which is typically located inside your door.
Improper tire inflation can lead to premature tire wear and uneven wear across the tread face resulting in a noisy and uncomfortable ride. Another important reason for checking inflation pressure is to maximize fuel efficiency as underinflated tires will increase rolling resistance, reduce load carrying capacity and use more fuel. Overinflated tires can make your tires more susceptible to impact damage from potholes and other road hazards and inflation should be checked monthly and before and after long trips.
A personal auto inflator pump allows you to check and adjust your pressure in the morning before your vehicle is placed in service. Inflation pressure should be checked and adjusted when the tires are cold and you should never bleed off pressure after your vehicle has been driven. When tires are in service the air expands and warms as your tires heat up and the pressure rises as the heat increases.
The Tire Industry Association (TIA) is an international non-profit association representing all segments of the tire industry with more than 13,000 members from all 50 states and around the globe. They have produced a video titled, “Tire Safety Starts with Inflation”, that communicates proper procedures for managing tire inflation for safety. Tire Safety Starts with Inflation – YouTube
When installing new tires, it is a good idea to replace your tire valve stems and caps as they are crucial for maintaining proper inflation pressure and guard against slow leaks. With fuel economy and your driving safety in mind be sure to check your inflation frequently with a tire pressure gauge. Accurate easy to read glow dial gauges are readily available in the $20 range and for families with more than one vehicle should consider a 12-volt DC auto inflator pump that includes accessories that allow for convenient inflation of bicycles and other sport equipment.
Some vehicle manufacturers suggest tire rotation to optimize tire life because front and rear tires may wear at a different rate. Be sure to check your operator manual as not all tire/wheel combinations can be rotated.
GLOBAL TIRE COMPANY RANKINGS
Per the “TIRE BUSINESS” tire industry publication 36th Global Tire Report, below you will find the top 2021 global tire company rankings based on 2020 sales results.
2020
Rank Company/Headquarters
1 Michelin
Clermont-Ferrand, France
2 Bridgestone
Tokyo, Japan
3 Goodyear
Akron, Ohio
4 Continental
Hanover, Germany
5 Sumitomo
Kobe, Japan
6 Hankook
Seoul, South Korea
7 Pirelli
Milan, Italy
8 Yokohama
Tokyo, Japan
9 Zhongce Rubber – Westlake
Hangzhou, China
10 Cheng/Shin Rubber – Maxxis
Yuanlin, Taiwan
11 Toyo
Hyogo, Japan
12 Linglong
Shandong, China
13 Cooper
Findlay, Ohio
14 Giti
Singapore
15 Apollo
Kerala, India