Seasonal Tire Pressure Adjustments - Winter & Summer Guide

🌡️ The Golden Rule

Tire pressure changes by approximately 1 PSI for every 10°F (5.5°C) change in temperature.

Why Temperature Affects Tire Pressure

Tire pressure isn't constant throughout the year. As temperatures rise and fall with the seasons, the air inside your tires expands and contracts, causing pressure changes that can significantly impact your vehicle's safety and performance.

🔥 Hot Weather

Air expands when heated

Summer heat causes tire pressure to increase. A tire inflated to 32 PSI at 70°F could read 35-36 PSI on a 100°F day.

❄️ Cold Weather

Air contracts when cooled

Winter cold causes tire pressure to decrease. A tire inflated to 32 PSI at 70°F could drop to 28-29 PSI on a 30°F day.

Fall/Winter Adjustments

As temperatures drop in fall and winter, your tire pressure will naturally decrease. Here's what you need to know:

⚠️ Check Pressure More Frequently

During temperature transitions (fall and spring), check your tire pressure weekly rather than monthly. Temperature swings can cause rapid pressure changes.

When to Add Air in Winter

•When temperature drops below 40°F (4°C)
•When your TPMS warning light comes on
•Before the first frost or snowfall
•When pressure drops 3+ PSI below recommended

Winter Inflation Tips:

✓ Inflate tires in a heated garage if possible
✓ Check pressure when tires are cold (before driving)
✓ Add 2-3 PSI above recommended for extreme cold climates
✓ Don't wait for TPMS light - it only warns at 25% under-inflation

Spring/Summer Adjustments

As temperatures rise in spring and summer, your tire pressure will naturally increase. Here's how to manage it:

When to Release Air in Summer

•When temperature rises above 80°F (27°C)
•When pressure exceeds recommended by 3+ PSI
•After transitioning from winter to summer
•Before long summer road trips

Summer Inflation Tips:

✓ Check pressure early in the morning when it's cooler
✓ Don't over-inflate thinking heat will reduce it
✓ Stick to manufacturer's recommended pressure
✓ Never exceed maximum pressure shown on tire sidewall

Temperature Pressure Chart

Temperature	Expected Change	Example (32 PSI base)
-10°F to 20°F	-3 to -5 PSI	27-29 PSI
20°F to 40°F	-2 to -3 PSI	29-30 PSI
40°F to 60°F	-1 to -2 PSI	30-31 PSI
60°F to 80°F	Baseline	32 PSI
80°F to 100°F	+2 to +3 PSI	34-35 PSI
100°F+	+3 to +5 PSI	35-37 PSI

Driving-Induced Heat

Important Note

Driving generates heat through friction, which increases tire pressure by 2-4 PSI within the first 15 minutes of driving.

Always check tire pressure when tires are cold - before driving or at least 3 hours after driving.

Regional Considerations

🏔️ Cold Climates

(Alaska, Northern States, Canada)

• Check weekly in winter
• Add 2-3 PSI buffer
• Monitor constantly

🌞 Hot Climates

(Arizona, Texas, Southern States)

• Check in early morning
• Don't over-inflate
• Watch for heat buildup

🌤️ Moderate Climates

(Coastal, Mid-Atlantic)

• Monthly checks adequate
• Adjust during season changes
• Standard maintenance

Seasonal Checklist

Fall (September - November)

☐ Check pressure weekly as temps drop
☐ Add air as needed to maintain spec
☐ Inspect for wear before winter
☐ Consider winter tire switch

Winter (December - February)

☐ Check pressure before each cold snap
☐ Maintain 2-3 PSI above spec in extreme cold
☐ Don't rely solely on TPMS
☐ Keep portable inflator in vehicle

Spring (March - May)

☐ Check pressure as temps rise
☐ Release excess air if over-inflated
☐ Return to standard recommended pressure
☐ Switch back to summer tires if applicable

Summer (June - August)

☐ Check pressure monthly
☐ Check before long road trips
☐ Adjust if consistently over spec
☐ Monitor for heat-related issues

Key Takeaways

✓Temperature changes affect tire pressure - expect 1 PSI change per 10°F
✓Check pressure more frequently during seasonal transitions
✓Always check when tires are cold for accurate readings
✓Adjust pressure to maintain manufacturer's recommended spec
✓Don't wait for TPMS warning - be proactive