COLD Weather Snap- Get READY!

Are you ready for the sub-zero onslaught of phone calls from distressed, frozen drivers with car problems? Here are some wheel and tire problems you may encounter-

TPMS Light On- This might be a simple matter of filling the tires up a few pounds. Cold temperatures mean a drop in tire pressures that can trigger the TPMS sensor when it drops below the minimum psi. A rule of thumb is for every 5 degrees celsius drop in temperature, there is a 1 psi drop in tire pressure. Going from a Chinook to a deep freeze can mean a loss of as much as 6 psi.

Flat or Low Tire: Aside from a tire puncture, there could be 2 winter-related problems to look for-

1. Faulty bead seal- rubber loses much of its pliability at sub-zero temperatures, and a leaky air seal can occur between the tire bead and rim lip. Use a tire sealer that is suited for cold temperature.
2. Damaged rim- aluminum wheels, cold and concrete don't mix and when all 3 combine the aluminum wheel comes out damaged with a cracked or broken lip (or worse). Wheels with cracked or broken lips can be repaired or replaced by calling Wheel Pro's at 403-226-7278.

Cold temperatures also affect wheel and tire servicing in the shop in two ways-

1. Ensure that tire-puncture repairs are done at warm temperatures. Allow the tire to warm up for a while in the shop and make sure your tire-repair materials (patches, cement, etc) are always kept at room temperatures. Remember- tire repair is a chemical vulcanizing process that requires a minimum temperature to occur. The warmer the temperature, the better the chemical reaction.
2. Frozen adhesive weights don't stick to cold wheels. In freezing weather, the prep process for applying adhesive weights is critical. Aside from the normal prep explained in the last bulletin, make sure the temperature of the wheel surface is warm enough. Typically, this can be quickly done by applying a heat gun to the surface. Also, be sure your adhesive weights are at room temperature in order for them to stick properly. Storing adhesive weights on cold concrete floors or outside in a vehicle will adversely affect their ability to stick.

Stay warm and call us if you need anything! 403-860-5666.