Save on gas

Drivers suffering from price fatigue when filling up can get some relief by measuring their tire pressures monthly to ensure they are properly inflated.

Canadian drivers will pay an estimated $703 million in unnecessary fuel bills in 2012 simply because one or more of their tires are under-inflated, according to data from Natural Resources Canada and the Rubber Association of Canada (RAC), which represents tire makers.

What causes all this waste is higher than necessary rolling resistance. A tire that is under-inflated does not roll as smoothly or as easily as it was intended. The result is increased rolling resistance, which requires the vehicle to burn more fuel to push the tire down the road.

Unfortunately, tire under-inflation on Canada's roadways is widespread. According to RAC research, one third of Canada's 20 million automobiles have at least one under-inflated tire.

Tire consumers can learn more about low rolling resistance tires by visiting their tire retailer.

Measuring and adjusting tire pressure is an easy, four step process that takes no more than five minutes. Here's how:

Find the right inflation pressure by wheel position on the vehicle placard, which is commonly located on one of the vehicle's inside door posts, or inside the glove compartment or fuel door. Consult the owner's manual for the exact location.

Remember to only measure pressure when the tires are cold. If you have been driving, wait three hours before measuring tire pressure. Tires heat up when rolling, so if they are measured after driving more than two kilometres, the pressure reading will be inaccurate.

Use a reliable tire gauge when measuring pressure. A visual inspection is not an effective way of measuring tire pressure. A tire can be under or over inflated by 20 per cent or more and not be noticeable. Remove the cap from the valve stem, press the tire gauge onto the valve and take the pressure reading.

Add air until the recommended air pressure is achieved. If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the centre of the valve, then re-measure the pressure.

May 14 to 20, 2012, is National Be Tire Smart Week, during which the tire industry, including manufacturers, retailers and distributors will be reminding motorists about the fuel efficiency, environmental and safety benefits of proper tire inflation and maintenance.

Canadians can learn more about the value of proper tire inflation and maintenance, low rolling resistance tires and Be Tire Smart Week by visiting www.betiresmart.ca.