All new American cars now have tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). TPMS monitors tire pressure and alerts you if it is dangerously low.

Yet, checking your tires monthly is one of the best driving decisions you can make. Properly inflated tires not only ensure vehicle safety but also increase fuel efficiency, and reduce carbon dioxide emission.

Fuel efficiency can be increased

According to the U.S. Department of Energy 3.56 million gallons of gasoline is wasted each day because of improperly inflated tires. Good news: Properly inflated tires can increase gas mileage. According to one study, proper tire pressure can reduce gas consumption by up to $432 per year, even though gas is $3/gallon.

Carbon Dioxide emissions can be reduced

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average American car emits more than five tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. Properly inflating your tires can help reduce the vehicle’s emissions. “carbon footprint”An average 327 pounds per annum. A tire can lose as much as half of its air pressure and still appear to be properly inflated.

Schrader Tire Pressure

Here are some tips from Schrader – the world’s leading manufacturer of TPMS – to make sure your tires are properly inflated throughout the year.

* Check the pressure in all four tires — and the spare tire — monthly with an accurate tire gauge, and always check tire pressure before a long road trip.

* The “right”Pressure information for your vehicle’s tires is available in the vehicle’s manual, or on the glove box or driver’s door edges. You should not ignore the information on your tire sidewall.

* For the most accurate reading, tires should be checked when they are cool.

* Always remember to replace the valve cap.

TPMSMadeSimple.com offers more tips. Schrader created this site to help educate drivers regarding TPMS and proper tire pressure.