Traffic jams have become an integral part of modern urban life. Constant stops and frequent braking have a significant impact on the condition of your car, especially on the tires. Tires bear the brunt of the load during city driving, particularly in traffic, which can lead to rapid wear and increase the risk of accidents.
How traffic affects tires
Frequent braking and accelerating in traffic put additional strain on tires, accelerating their wear. Traffic jams also increase the likelihood of developing “flat spots” on tires — areas where the tire makes constant contact with the road due to sudden braking. As a result, tires lose traction more quickly, which can lead to poor handling and increased accident risk, especially in wet conditions or on slippery roads.
Dangers of worn or improperly inflated tires
Worn or improperly inflated tires can lead to serious accidents. Worn-out tires lose their ability to grip the road effectively, especially during braking or sharp maneuvers. Low tire pressure reduces road grip, lengthens braking distances, and worsens handling. Conversely, overinflated tires can cause a loss of stability at high speeds or when making sudden turns.
To avoid such problems, it is important to regularly check tire condition and pressure.
How to measure tyre pressure with a step-by-step guide
Maintaining the correct tire pressure not only extends tire life but also improves road safety. You can check tire pressure using various tools, from mechanical gauges to modern digital devices.
- Prepare for Measurement: Before measuring, make sure the tires are cool. Hot tires may show higher pressure, leading to inaccurate readings.
- Choose a Tool: Use a pressure gauge — either mechanical or digital. Each has its advantages, but digital gauges tend to provide more accurate results.
- Measurement Process: Unscrew the valve cap on the tire and firmly press the gauge to the valve. Read the pressure. Tire pressure is typically measured in bars or pounds per square inch (PSI).
- Compare with the Standard: As an example, Audi A5 tire pressure should be between 2.3 and 2.5 bars, depending on usage conditions (vehicle load, season, etc.).
- Adjust Pressure: If the pressure is below the recommended level, add air to reach the correct level. If it’s too high, release some air.
Recommended tire pressure table for different cars
| Car Model | Front Tire Pressure (bar) | Rear Tire Pressure (bar) |
| Audi A5 | 2.3 – 2.5 | 2.3 – 2.5 |
| BMW 3 Series | 2.2 – 2.4 | 2.4 – 2.6 |
| Toyota Corolla | 2.1 – 2.3 | 2.1 – 2.3 |
| Ford Focus | 2.2 – 2.5 | 2.2 – 2.5 |
Many drivers underestimate the impact of traffic on their tires. Here’s a simple fact: tire wear in traffic can occur 1.5 times faster than on highways at constant speed. This subtle but significant factor can lead to a sudden deterioration in vehicle handling. Maintaining proper tire pressure and regularly checking tire condition is not only a matter of safety but also a way to save on repairs and extend the life of your vehicle.
Conclusion
Worn or improperly inflated tires do not just reduce driving comfort; they pose a real threat to the safety of both the driver and passengers. In urban traffic conditions, it’s essential to pay special attention to tire condition and regularly check tire pressure. Using simple tools to monitor pressure helps detect problems in time and prevent potential accidents.