National press release calls for tire pressure check to coincide with weekend clock-shift

Just as everyone has long been urged to replace their home smoke detector batteries as daylight savings time “falls back” to standard time this weekend, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers has issued a nationwide press release suggesting that inspecting the tire pressure on each of your vehicles should also be added to the clock-changing ritual – although presumably the pressure-check can wait until daybreak rather than attempted at 2 a.m. on Sunday.

“When a car’s tire pressure is under inflated, it can compromise the safety and fuel efficiency of the vehicle,” the organization declares.

“Under inflated tires can lead to accidents that involve skidding, loss of control, hydroplaning on wet or icy surfaces and flat tires/tire blowouts,” the release continues. “In addition, fuel efficiency is reduced when tires are under inflated. Keeping tires properly inflated actually translates to a free tank of gas every year.”

As a tire dealer, you may wish to make yourself available to the local media to further discuss proper tire care, fuel economy and safety. You might also want to post a message out front on your signboard and on your Internet site.

“Checking your tires is quick and easy, but in order to really see the benefits, it needs to be done correctly,” the Alliance advises. A recent survey reports that a whopping 80 percent of Americans may be unfamiliar with how to properly check tire pressure.

On most vehicles, the proper pressure readings are inside the driver’s side door. If a motorist can’t find it there, it will be in the owner’s manual. And, of course, your tire dealer can ensure everything is done correctly and other potential hazards are addressed as well.

The Alliance’s tire pressure endeavor is part of the national EcoDriving initiative, which urges proper vehicle maintenance to save fuel, reduce air pollution and promote safer motoring.

The program is comprised of civic organizations, government officials and agencies plus auto safety organizations along with the Alliance’s participation. The Alliance includes OEMs such as BMW, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen.