Tire Inflation - Nitrogen

Updated 8/15/17

Nitrogen inflation in tires is gaining popularity in the light vehicle (passenger and light truck) market. Nitrogen inflation in tires is not new to the tire industry however, and has been used under severe service conditions such as in large off-road tires, aircraft tires (as fire prevention) and racing tires for many years. Nitrogen inflation does not harm tires nor does it affect the warranty.

One of the most important factors in tire care is maintaining proper inflation pressure. The proper tire inflation for a vehicle is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and can usually be found on the tire placard (or sticker) attached to the vehicle door edge, door post, glove box door or fuel door as well as the vehicle owner’s manual. Proper tire inflation, whether nitrogen or normal air, helps tires wear longer, saves fuel and helps prevent accidents. Under inflation, regardless of the inflation gas, can make it harder to steer and stop your vehicle, result in loss of vehicle control, cause sudden tire destruction, and lead to serious injury or death.

Nitrogen inflation will not prevent damage or loss of inflation due to road hazards. Nitrogen inflation will also not prevent tire damage due to under inflation, overloading of off road service. Tire inflation should always be checked and adjusted to proper inflation pressure on a regular basis (at least monthly and before long trips), regardless of the inflation gas, to provide optimum tire performance.