Schrader International, marketer of AirAware™ brand TPMS systems, components and tools, supports April - National Car Care Month sponsored by the Car Care Council with a reminder to drivers that proper tire inflation can help save fuel and wear on their tires. With properly maintained tires, the average driver could save as much as two weeks worth of gas every year.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 27% of passenger cars and 32% of pickup trucks, SUV’s and minivans have at least one significant under inflated tire. Many people erroneously check the tire pressure after recently driving the car and while the tires are still warm.

Schrader urges drivers to check their tire pressure with a gauge a minimum of once per month, and before any long motor trip. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations printed on the driver’s side doorframe or in the owner’s manual, not to the maximum limit stamped on a tire sidewall. Tires should be checked when they are cold and haven’t been driven for at least three hours to obtain the proper reading.

The U.S. Energy Department estimates that proper inflation can improve gas mileage by more than 3%, with regular maintenance, since under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.4 percent for every pound per square inch drop in pressure.

In addition to maintaining fuel economy efficiency, proper tire inflation is critical for safety, maximum tire life, and proper vehicle handling. Under-inflation increases the rolling resistance of tires, which increases fuel consumption. Under-inflation also subjects tires to excess stress and heat, prime contributors to tire failure, including blowouts at high speed. Under-inflated tires also wear out more quickly. Properly inflated tires are harder and roll more easily, which helps fuel economy and improves tire life. Proper inflation allows tire treads to grip better in all conditions, including rain and snow. Properly inflated tires function with a vehicle's suspension to provide maximum handling, steering, and braking ability.

Schrader also points out that vehicles equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) can help motorists detect loss of tire pressure, since Federal regulations require TPMS to warn drivers when tires are 25 percent under-inflated. However, this warning may be too late to prevent premature tire wear and increased frequency of stops for fuel. TPMS units are NOT a replacement for monthly tire pressure checks with a gauge.