The Truth About Tyre Pressure: Why Lower Isn’t Always Bad (and Higher Isn’t Always Good)

When it comes to tyre pressure, most people assume: “higher is better, sharper handling, better mileage, less wear.” But the truth is more nuanced, running your tyres slightly lower or higher both have trade-offs, and knowing when to adjust can improve your ride, handling, and safety.

Let’s break it down.

Why Lower Tyre Pressure Can Be Good

When you reduce tyre pressure slightly (but stay within the safe range): 

- Larger contact patch → more grip on the road. 

- Softer ride → absorbs bumps & potholes better. 

- Better traction on wet, snowy, or loose surfaces. 

- More predictable handling at lower speeds.

The downsides of too-low pressure:

- Increased rolling resistance → worse fuel economy. 

- Can overheat and wear out edges faster. 

- Steering may feel less sharp.

Best for: Rough roads, wet or loose surfaces, comfort-oriented driving.

Why Higher Tyre Pressure Can Be Useful

Many drivers pump up their tyres to the max-rated pressure thinking it improves everything. And in some ways, it can help, but it also has downsides.

Pros of higher pressure:

- Reduced rolling resistance → better fuel efficiency. 

-  Sharper, more immediate steering response. 

- Tyres run cooler at high speeds (up to a point).

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Cons of too-high pressure:

- Smaller contact patch → less grip, especially in corners & wet roads. 

-  Harsher ride → every bump & pothole feels sharper. 

-  Increased risk of uneven wear in the centre of the tread. 

-  More prone to skidding and reduced braking on poor surfaces.

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Best for: Long, smooth highway drives where efficiency & stability at high speed matter more than comfort.

So, What’s the Right Balance?

➡ The manufacturer’s recommended pressure (found in your door jamb or manual) is a safe middle ground for typical use. 

➡ You can go about 5–10% lower for comfort and grip on bad roads, but don’t go below the minimum spec. 

➡ You can go about 5–10% higher for better efficiency & crispness on smooth roads, but don’t exceed the max rating on the tyre sidewall.

Final Thoughts

Tyre pressure isn’t just a number, it’s a tuning tool you can use to make your car ride, handle, and grip the way you like.

Lower = comfort & grip

Higher = efficiency & sharp response

Both have trade-offs, choose based on conditions & your driving style.

Keep a good gauge handy, check pressures regularly, and adjust smartly. Because tyres are where all your car’s performance meets the road, make it count.