It is about compensating for something – namely weight – when car manufacturers and tire manufacturers indicate the tire pressure, which is often different front and rear .
Let's start with a new Mercedes-Benz E 220 di estate car version. It is one of those cars where the tire pressure can be different front and rear.
Even if the difference is only 0.1 maybe 0.3 bar.
The manufacturer – in this case Mercedes – typically specifies different tire pressures to take account of the car's weight distribution and expected load. This is done in collaboration with the tire manufacturer, who supplies the tires the car is fitted with from the factory.
But there may be several factors at play. Adjusting the tire pressure can also have an influence on the car's handling characteristics.
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One of the main reasons why car manufacturers recommend different tire pressures for front and rear tires is the car's weight distribution.
The engine and gearbox are usually located at the front of the car. This means that the front wheels often drag around a larger part of the car's total weight. Therefore, it can and will be necessary to have a higher pressure in the front wheels to compensate for the extra weight.
But the rear tires may also need a higher pressure. Especially if the car is rear-wheel drive or is often filled with heavy items in the boot.
For rear-wheel drive cars, a higher rear tire pressure can help reduce wear on the rear tyres.
Another reason to adjust the tire pressure may be to change the car's handling characteristics. Tire pressure can affect the car's tendency to understeer or oversteer. Adjusting the front and rear tire pressure can change how the car reacts in corners and at different speeds.
While it can be tempting to adjust tire pressure to suit personal preference or riding style, it's important to remember that manufacturer recommendations aren't just written for fun.
It's about safety
You can be sure that every car manufacturer has thoroughly researched and substantiated it, because they recommend a certain tire pressure. Both on the front and rear axle of your car.
Therefore, deviations from the recommendations can also have a negative impact on the car's handling properties and thus the level of safety.
In many cars, the recommended tire pressure is noted in the front door or on the part of the body immediately behind. On some cars, the tire pressure is even indicated according to different tire sizes. If you are still in doubt, the correct tire pressure is always in the car's owner's manual.
Sometimes the maximum tire pressure is indicated on the tire sidewalls themselves. That is, for both your own sake and that of other road users.
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