Cold Snap In Western KY And Southern IN Affects Vehicle Tire Pressure

Here in western Kentucky and southern Indiana, our weather just turned sharply colder. Earlier in the week, we enjoyed November highs in the upper 60s and lower 70s. By the time Thursday rolled around, we were struggling to climb into the 40s. It was windy and cold and I almost immediately noticed an issue with the pressure in the truck tires.

I was driving in one of our company vehicles and noticed a shift in the tire pressure shortly after pulling out of our station parking lot. I heard a ding and noticed that a hazard light appeared on the digital dashboard. The sensors showed the readings in all four tires and indicated low tire pressure.

So, why does this happen? I mean, I know there's a relation between temperature and tire pressure, but I am not entirely educated on the science behind it. I did some internet searching and found that explanation.

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Forbes published an article called The Science Of Why Car Tires Deflate When It Is Cold. It discusses, in rather 'brainiac' length, The Ideal Gas Law. It's a bit complicated, but I'll do my best to summarize it. Essentially, there's a 'proportionality' between air pressure and temperature. This suggests that "as the temperature decreases so does pressure."

If you don't feel like diving deep into Ideal Gas Law, I get it. Try this for an explanation instead.

This video from Fred Anderson Toyota explains how oxygen is a noble gas and indeed loses pressure with temperature. It also explains what you need to do about it.

In related news, our partners at Best One Tire are giving you the chance to win a $29 gift card to their store. Getting registered is simple. All you have to do is fill out the quick entry form below.

We have FIVE gift cards up for grabs and we'll announce the lucky winners on Monday, November 25th. The registration period is 12am CST, Friday, November 22nd through 11:59pm CST, Sunday, November 24th.