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Q--I regularly check my tire pressure and adjust as needed. I notice when I go to my local Jiffy Lube they always seem to let air out of my tires. When I check the tires the following morning (cold), sure enough, they are way too low. Tires are always supposed to be gauged when cold (before driving). As you drive the tires heat up and pressure increases. When I get to Jiffy Lube, obviously the tires are warm and pressure has increased from the base cold pressure. I've now started telling them to leave the tires alone. I've always been told that driving on under-inflated tires is very detrimental to tire life (e.g. the Firestone/Explorer deal). What are your feelings on this?
A--You are absolutely right on every count. Tire pressure increases as you drive and should never be bled off while the tires are still warm. All inflation specifications are for cold tires — those driven less than two miles — with full knowledge that the pressure will increase when warm
Underinflated tires are actually more dangerous than overinflated ones, but neither is acceptable in my opinion.