Is it a good idea to use the maximum pressure shown on the tyre?
There is a YouTube video (American) that says you should ignore the recommended tyre pressures on the sticker or handbook that says say 32 or 34PSI but should run them on 40PSI to make the tyre wear go further. On the tyre sidewall it will give the max pressure for a max load of 51PSI as the tyres on my i10 say. What do you think of this suggestion?
Asked on 27 May 2026 by
Answered by
David Ross
This is a terrible idea. Manufacturers set the recommended tyre pressures for their vehicles based on a number of factors including weight distribution, dimensions and suspension set up, whereas the maximum tyre pressure indicated on a tyre is the maximum safe pressure it can be operated at and takes no account of the vehicle it is fitted to. An over-inflated tyre will wear out faster than one that is correctly inflated, as overinflation means wear is concentrated on the centre section of the tyre rather than being spread across the entire width of the tread. This also results in less grip, extending braking distances, reducing traction and cornering capability, making it safety issue.
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