Tip #2: `Power-full` - Checking tyre pressure regularly; a small action can have big effects

Action:
· Check and adjust tyre pressure regularly according to load and speed
· Regularly check tyres for visible damage
· Keep spare tyre at the right pressure

Effect:
· Reduced costs and environmentally harmful emissions from lower fuel consumption
· Higher overall safety through greater driving stability
· Longer tyre durability

The importance of the correct tyre pressure is often underestimated. An under-inflated tyre is an unnecessary safety risk and dangerous under all circumstances. Under-inflated tyres:
· make the vehicle less stable and less precise in handling,
· are weaker and might disintegrate at high speed,
· may unseat from the rim, resulting in dramatic loss of control of the vehicle.

Under-inflated tyres also increase the rolling resistance, which leads to increased fuel consumption. Too little air in tyres means spending money for nothing. For example, 1 bar below the optimum pressure increases the rolling resistance by up to 30% and thereby causes higher fuel consumption at same speed and distance driven.

A slight increase in tyre pressure (max. 0.2 bar) is possible if the users' manual says so. But safety first: Too much air is also dangerous, and may cause problems in handling because the tyre's contact with the road surface is reduced.

Spare tyres also need regular checking. The worst possible time to dsicover a flat spare tyre is when you actually need to use it!

Conclusion: Proper tyre inflation increases safety and fuel efficiency while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. To ensure these positive effects, tyre pressure should be maintained regularly. Manufacturers give the recommended tyre pressure in the car user's manual, on the vehicle itself or on the inflation tables displayed by all automobile professionals. Individual recommended pressure is designed to provide the best balance between comfort, safety and economy.