Nitrogen Or Air For My Tyres?

You can choose Nitrogen or Air to inflate your tyres. Which one is right for you?

When changing your tyres you will probably be asked if you would like them nitrogen inflated. So, we have provided a summary of how nitrogen compares with air and what is best for you.

Nitrogen is more effective

Pure nitrogen inflated tyres are most used in highly specialised applications like Formula 1 and airplane tyres, or in highly demanding environments like commercial vehicle use. Nitrogen is an environmentally friendly element that does not support moisture or combustion. This means that it doesn’t hold heat and your tyres can run cooler improving road handing and extending tyre life. Plus the lack of moisture also leads to reduced corrosion.

Filling your tyres with nitrogen reduces variations in tyre pressure, and because nitrogen loses pressure slower than air, your tyres will stay properly inflated for around longer. This contributes to improved fuel efficiently and reduced wear on tyres.

Nitrogen does not prevent tire deflation caused by punctures, bead leaks, valve leaks or any other mechanic leaks.

Air is cheaper and more convenient

There’s nothing wrong with keeping your tyres inflated with good old air – it’s been used successfully for years. Air consists of 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, despite often being referred to as oxygen. Air has limitations when compared to pure nitrogen, but it’s free and convenient. You can easily check your tyre pressure and top up at your local garage.

Which is right for me?

If you’re like most motorists and use your car mainly to get you from point A to point B, you don’t need nitrogen inflated tyres. The cost and hassle of nitrogen outweighs the benefits. However, if you use your vehicle for commercial purposes or if you want enhanced performance you should opt for nitrogen inflated tyres. You will just have to pay to inflate them and top-ups are more tedious.

Whatever route you decide, the most important thing is to ensure your tyres are inflated correctly. You can find the recommended tyre pressure sticker on the inside of the driver’s door. Check your tyre pressure each time you fill up – don’t forget to check the spare!

We understand that your car plays an important part of your daily life, transporting you and your loved ones. Michanic is dedicated to providing the most convenient services for our customers, so if you have any other questions or concerns regarding your car, feel free to talk to our customer service team through email at [email protected], or by phone on 087 803 9000.

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