Blog - DeBoer's Sussex County New Jersey Expert Auto Service and Repair Blog

Understanding the Ideal Gas Theory: How It Affects Your Tire Pressure in Cold Weather

Written by Bill DeBoer | Nov 14, 2023 2:33:26 PM

 You may be wondering how this chemistry lesson relates to our work on cars. The ideal gas theory is an equation that uses P for pressure and V for volume. This theory explains what happens to the air in your tires during cold weather. As the temperature drops, the pressure in your tires decreases due to a direct correlation. This is the reason why you may see your tire light come on every morning during the winter months.

The formula for the ideal gas theory is PV = NRT. This means that the pressure times volume equals the number of moles of air multiplied by the gas constant rate and temperature. Although we cannot control the weather, we can help you when your tire pressure is low and direct you on how to keep your tire pressure in a safe range so that you can travel safely.


If your tire pressure light starts to come on in the colder days ahead, now you know why. What you should do is contact us. Stop by, or schedule an appointment online at www.autorepair.shop and one of our ASE-certified technicians will be happy to evaluate your tires and set them at the proper pressure.