How Heat Affects Tire Pressure and Safety
- Yeargan's Automotive
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read

As the summer heat settles into Carrboro and surrounding areas, your vehicle faces more than just hot pavement and longer drive times—it also faces increased tire pressure that can compromise safety if left unchecked. At Yeargan’s Top Notch Automotive, we want to help you understand how temperature changes affect your tires and what you can do to stay safe on the road.
Why Tire Pressure Changes in the Heat
Tire pressure is influenced by temperature. For every 10°F increase in ambient temperature, tire pressure typically increases by about 1 PSI (pound per square inch). This is due to the simple physics of air expansion: as the air inside your tires heats up, it expands and increases pressure.
On a typical 85°F summer day, a car sitting in the sun can experience pavement and tire temperatures exceeding 120°F. That’s a recipe for elevated tire pressure—sometimes well above the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
The Safety Risks of Overinflated Tires
Too much pressure in your tires can be just as dangerous as too little. Here’s what can happen:
Reduced traction: Overinflated tires have a smaller contact patch with the road, reducing grip—especially in wet conditions.
Uneven tire wear: The center of the tire wears out faster, shortening the life of the tire.
Higher risk of blowouts: Hot pavement and overinflation create more stress on tire sidewalls, increasing the risk of a dangerous blowout.
Longer braking distances: With reduced surface contact and less flexibility, overinflated tires don’t stop as effectively.
Don’t Forget About Underinflated Tires Either
In some cases, people may underinflate their tires thinking it improves ride comfort. But underinflated tires also pose serious risks in the heat:
Excess heat builds up inside the tire due to more flexing of the sidewalls.
This heat buildup increases the chance of tread separation or failure at highway speeds.
Underinflation is one of the top causes of tire blowouts in the summer months.
What You Can Do: Tire Safety Tips for Summer
Check your tire pressure monthly (or more frequently during extreme heat). Do it first thing in the morning when tires are “cold” for an accurate reading.
Follow your vehicle’s recommended PSI, not the maximum number listed on the tire sidewall. Some vehicles have Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems in place to keep you informed of any pressure changes.
Inspect for uneven wear, bulges, or cracking—these are signs you may need a tire repair or replacement.
Don’t forget your spare! A flat spare tire won’t help you if you’re stuck on the side of the road.
Stop by Yeargan’s—We’ll Check Your Tires for Free
At Yeargan’s Top Notch Automotive, our team is always happy to give your tires a quick safety check—no appointment necessary.
Whether you need air, a patch, a new set of tires, or just peace of mind before a road trip, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call at 919-942-9009 or swing by the shop. Let’s keep your vehicle riding safely all summer long.