Summer is a time when roads become a true test for our vehicles, especially our tyres. With the sun beating down and asphalt temperatures reaching up to 60-70 degrees Celsius, tyre pressure becomes a critical factor that can determine the difference between a safe trip and a dangerous accident. RS Pro, your trusted road partner, has prepared a detailed guide on the gold rules of tyre pressure in the summer to ensure your journeys are not only pleasant but also maximally safe.
Heat and Physics: Why Is Tyre Pressure So Important in Summer?
We all know that gases expand when heated, and the same happens to the air in your tyres. Tyre pressure set at normal temperatures can change significantly when a vehicle travels for long periods over hot asphalt. Research and experience show that hot asphalt can increase tyre pressure by 0.3 to 0.5 bar above the initial level. This means a tyre that was perfectly inflated in the cool garage in the morning could become dangerously overinflated by midday on the motorway.
The Risks of Overinflation
An overinflated tyre reduces the contact patch with the road, which impairs grip, especially during cornering and braking. It also increases impact loads on the suspension and can cause uneven tyre wear in the central tread. However, the second scenario—insufficient tyre pressure—is far more dangerous.
Underinflated Tyres in the Heat: The Silent Killer on the Road
Many drivers mistakenly believe that slightly lower tyre pressure is actually desirable in hot weather to compensate for air expansion. This is a dangerous myth! Insufficient tyre pressure in summer is much more hazardous than overinflation and can lead to catastrophic consequences, especially when driving at high speeds on the motorway.
Why Does Low Pressure Cause Overheating and Blowouts?
- Increased Friction: An underinflated tyre deforms more with every rotation. Its sidewalls “flex” more intensely, creating immense friction and heat inside the tyre structure.
- Material Fatigue: This constant deformation and heat destroy the tyre’s carcass structure, weakening the materials and rubber bonds.
- Thermal Load: External heat from the asphalt and internal heat from friction combine, creating an extreme thermal load. The internal temperature of the tyre can reach 100-120 degrees Celsius, far exceeding its endurance limits.
- Pressure Drop: Ironically, an overheated tyre may lose pressure because the heat damages the internal construction and can cause air leaks, further exacerbating the problem.
- Sudden Blowout: This combination—high speed, extreme heat, weakened construction, and low pressure—is the perfect recipe for a tyre blowout. The consequences can be fatal, as the driver suddenly loses control of the vehicle.
Summer Tyre Pressure Gold Rules: Practical Advice from RS Pro
To protect yourself and your passengers from unwanted situations, follow these recommendations from RS Pro experts:
- Regular “Cold” Checks: Check your tyre pressure at least every two weeks or before every long trip. Most importantly, do this when the tyres are “cold”—i.e., when the car has been stationary for at least three hours or driven no more than 2-3 km at low speed. This ensures the most accurate reading.
- Follow Manufacturer Recommendations: The correct tyre pressure is indicated on the sticker inside the driver’s door, the inside of the fuel filler flap, or in the vehicle manual. These values often differ between front and rear tyres and change depending on vehicle load.
- Adjust for Load: If you are planning a long journey with a fully loaded car (passengers and luggage), slightly increase the tyre pressure according to the manufacturer’s “full load” settings. This compensates for the extra weight and reduces tyre deformation.
- Do Not Deflate Hot Tyres: If you have already driven a long distance and the tyres are hot, their pressure will have increased. Never let air out to reduce the pressure to “cold” norms! When the tyres cool down, the pressure will become too low, creating a serious risk. Always re-check the pressure once the tyres have cooled.
- Use a Reliable Gauge: Cheap and inaccurate gauges can give misleading readings. Invest in a high-quality digital or analog gauge and check its accuracy regularly.
- Visual Inspection: Before every trip, take a quick look at all your tyres. Look for obvious signs of low pressure (bulging sidewalls), visible damage, lumps, or embedded foreign objects.
- Spare Tyre or Repair Kit: Ensure your spare tyre has the correct pressure and that your repair kit (if applicable) is functional and that you know how to use it.
What to Do If You Encounter Tyre Trouble
Even the most careful preparation cannot always prevent unexpected situations. If you experience a tyre failure, sudden pressure loss, or other technical issues on the road, don’t panic. RS Pro is at your service! Our 24/7 mobile tyre service is ready to arrive and provide assistance right where you need it—on the road or at your home. We offer tyre fitting, balancing, repair, and other services so you can get back on the road as quickly as possible.
If a tyre is irreparably damaged or further assistance is required, our tow trucks are ready to transport your vehicle to the nearest service centre or your chosen destination. Towing service prices in Riga start from 40-50 EUR, and our mobile tyre service is available from 40 EUR, ensuring a fast and effective solution in any situation.
Conclusion: Safety First
Tyre pressure is a small but incredibly important factor that directly affects your safety on the road. During the hot summer months, this importance increases exponentially. Dedicate a few minutes to regular tyre checks; it can save you from unpleasant incidents, expensive repairs, and, most importantly, threats to your life. Drive safely and enjoy your summer with RS Pro!