Inflating your tires with nitrogen will keep your tire properly inflated longer than with regular air. This will lead to less tire wear and improved fuel economy, but is it worth the additional expense and hassle?
Image by tristanf
Since nitrogen molecules are larger than oxygen, they will not escape through as many of the microscopic holes in the porous rubber of the tire. This is why they can stay inflated longer. However, regular air contains about 78% nitrogen, so the oxygen accounts for only a small amount of the air in your tire. Either choice of air will lose tire pressure, nitrogen will just lose it a little slower.
Some stores and repair shops will add an additional charge for nitrogen. This can be anywhere from $5-$25 per tire. There are other places that will not charge, Costco being one of them. Even if you can avoid an additional expense, you may have trouble finding a location to get your air topped up when you need it.
While proper inflation is important, you can keep your tires running at their best by checking their pressure once a month. By using regular air, you can easily keep the tires topped up at gas stations or get a portable air compressor to keep in your trunk. With proper maintenance, whether with nitrogen or air, your tires will last longer, help you driver safer, and save you some gas.
- Keeping Furnace Parts On Hand to Make Winter Easier
- Tips To Save Cash On Auto Repairs
- How to Avoid a Flat Tire - On Your Bike
Related Posts:
The only thing…where do you get the nitrogen? Can you get it at a service station?
James ´s last blog ..Go Buy Some Stock
Car dealers and tire installers have it, but it’s not conveinient to get in when you need a couple PSI topped up.