It is essential to inflate your tires with accurate pressure. While tire pressure is of utmost importance, one has two options: to inflate Nitrogen In Tires or air. Nitrogen is an inert gas that doesn’t react with other chemical substances easily. Therefore, it automatically becomes a better choice than the air.
Let’s learn the ups and downsides of using nitrogen-filled tires. Also, discover how much it costs to fill tires with nitrogen.
Is Nitrogen Suitable For Tires?
When it comes to maintaining optimal tire pressure and enhancing overall driving performance, many vehicle owners have explored the idea of using nitrogen-filled tires as an alternative to traditional air-filled ones.
Nitrogen has gained popularity in recent years for its potential benefits, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. In this blog, we’ll delve into the details of nitrogen-filled tires and help you make an informed choice for your vehicle.
Pros Of Nitrogen-Filled Tires
Here are the detailed advantages of nitrogen-filled tires:
Pressure Retention
One of the primary advantages of nitrogen-filled tires is their superior pressure retention compared to regular air. Nitrogen molecules are larger and less prone to leakage through the tire’s rubber. Therefore, it means that nitrogen-filled tires tend to maintain their optimal pressure for a more extended period, reducing the frequency of tire pressure checks and refills.
Consistent Pressure
Nitrogen-filled tires are less affected by temperature changes. As the temperature rises and falls, the pressure in regular air-filled tires can fluctuate significantly. That said, weather affects the tire pressure. In contrast, nitrogen’s stable properties lead to more consistent pressure levels, resulting in better handling and improved fuel efficiency.
Reduced Oxidation
Oxygen in regular air can cause oxidation within the tire. It leads to deterioration of the rubber and steel components. Nitrogen is an inert gas that doesn’t support combustion or contribute to oxidation, which can extend the overall lifespan of the tire and maintain its structural integrity.
Cons Of Nitroge In Tires
The following are the cons of nitrogen filled tires:
Cost
One of the significant drawbacks of nitrogen-filled tires is the associated cost. While air is readily available and essentially free, nitrogen requires specialized equipment and expertise to fill the tires properly.
The cost of nitrogen-filled tires can vary depending on the location, the tire shop, and the size of the tires. However, nitrogen costs anywhere from $3 to $10 per tire. It can lead to additional expenses, both for the initial filling and potential top-offs in the future.
Limited Availability
Finding nitrogen filling stations might be a challenge, especially in comparison to regular air stations that are available almost everywhere. This can be inconvenient, especially during long trips or in emergencies when you need to adjust your tire pressure quickly.
Minimal Real-World Benefits
While the benefits of nitrogen-filled tires are theoretically advantageous, their impact on everyday driving might not be as significant as anticipated. For most drivers, the subtle differences in pressure retention and temperature stability may not justify the added cost and effort.
One must know that nitrogen is mostly used in sports or performance cars. This was the complete guide to nitrogen-filled tires. You must also have a TPMS to learn real-time information about your tire conditions.
Keep reading the Porcsi blog for more information on tires, their health, and tire pressure sensors.