Check the tire pressure of electric vehicles before long trips.

Long trips in electric vehicles are a great way to explore, but ensuring your tires are properly inflated is a critical step that shouldn’t be skipped. Electric vehicles are heavier than traditional gas-powered cars due to their large battery packs, which puts extra stress on tires. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to reduced range, poor handling, increased wear, and even safety risks like blowouts—all of which can ruin a trip. Checking and adjusting tire pressure before hitting the road is simple, takes just a few minutes, and can make a huge difference in your electric vehicle’s performance and safety. Let’s break down why this check is essential and how to do it right.

Tire pressure is important for all cars, but it’s even more critical for electric vehicles. The added weight of the battery (often several hundred pounds) means tires bear more load, so underinflation or overinflation has a bigger impact. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the electric vehicle’s battery to work harder—reducing driving range by up to 10% or more. That’s a big problem on long trips where access to charging stations might be limited. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, reduce the tire’s contact area with the road, leading to poor traction, especially in wet or icy conditions. Electric vehicles also have instant torque, which puts extra strain on tires during acceleration—proper pressure helps distribute this force evenly, preventing uneven wear. Additionally, underinflated tires generate more heat, increasing the risk of blowouts on long drives. For electric vehicles, tire pressure isn’t just about comfort—it’s about maximizing range, protecting the battery, and staying safe.

Checking tire pressure on electric vehicles is straightforward, but doing it correctly ensures accurate results. First, make sure the tires are cold—drive less than a mile or let the electric vehicle sit for at least 3 hours before checking, as heat from driving increases tire pressure and skews readings. Locate the recommended tire pressure for your electric vehicle—it’s usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb, in the owner’s manual, or on the manufacturer’s website. This number (measured in psi or bar) is specific to your vehicle’s weight and tire size, so don’t rely on the maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall. Use a high-quality tire pressure gauge (digital gauges are more accurate than analog ones) and remove the valve cap from each tire. Press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem until you hear a hissing sound (this means it’s sealed), and wait for the reading. Compare the result to the recommended pressure—if it’s too low, add air; if it’s too high, release some by pressing the valve stem with a small tool (like a key). Repeat for all four tires, including the spare (if your electric vehicle has one), and replace the valve caps when done.

Long trips often involve different road types, temperatures, and loads, so adjusting tire pressure accordingly optimizes performance. If you’re carrying extra luggage, passengers, or towing a trailer, increase the tire pressure by 2-3 psi above the recommended level (don’t exceed the maximum pressure on the tire). The added load puts more stress on tires, and slightly higher pressure helps handle the weight without increasing rolling resistance too much. If you’re traveling through areas with extreme temperatures—hot deserts or cold mountains—plan for pressure changes. Tire pressure decreases by about 1 psi for every 10°F drop in temperature, so if you’re heading to a colder region, you may need to add a few psi before leaving. Conversely, if you’re driving in hot weather, don’t overinflate—tires will naturally expand, and starting with the recommended pressure prevents overinflation later. For electric vehicles with dual-motor or all-wheel drive, ensure all four tires have the same pressure (within 1 psi) to maintain balanced handling and prevent strain on the drivetrain. Taking a few minutes to adjust for these conditions can improve range, handling, and tire life during your trip.

While checking pressure, take a moment to inspect your electric vehicle’s tires for other problems that could cause issues on long trips. Look for signs of uneven wear—like bald spots on the inner or outer edges, which may indicate misalignment or persistent underinflation. Check for cuts, punctures, or embedded objects (like nails or glass) that could lead to leaks. Inspect the tire tread depth using the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down—if you can see the top of his head, the tread is too shallow (below 2/32 of an inch) and the tire needs to be replaced. Also, check the tire sidewalls for bulges or cracks, which are signs of structural damage and a safety hazard. Don’t forget to check the spare tire (if equipped) for pressure and condition—you don’t want to be stranded with a flat spare. Addressing these issues before your trip saves you from unexpected breakdowns and ensures your electric vehicle’s tires are ready for the journey.

Tire pressure checks shouldn’t end when your trip does—maintaining proper pressure after long drives helps extend tire life and keeps your electric vehicle running efficiently. After returning from your trip, let the tires cool down and check the pressure again. Long drives, especially at high speeds, can cause tire pressure to increase, so you may need to release a small amount of air to get back to the recommended level. If you noticed any issues during the trip—like reduced range, poor handling, or vibration—have a professional inspect the tires for alignment, balance, or damage. Regular pressure checks (at least once a month) are a good habit for electric vehicle owners, but they’re especially important after long trips when tires have been under more stress. Proper tire maintenance not only improves your electric vehicle’s performance but also saves money by reducing tire replacement costs and maximizing battery efficiency.

In conclusion, checking the tire pressure of electric vehicles before long trips is a simple yet essential task that impacts safety, range, and performance. Electric vehicles’ unique weight and torque make tire pressure more critical than ever, so taking a few minutes to check and adjust can prevent costly issues and ensure a smooth journey. By following the steps to check pressure correctly, adjust for trip conditions, inspect for tire damage, and maintain pressure post-trip, you can enjoy your long drive with confidence. Remember, proper tire care is an important part of electric vehicle ownership—one that pays off in safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.