Should you release air from hot tires to normalize pressure?

Releasing air from hot tires to normalize pressure is inappropriate and can lead to safety issues. Tire pressure increases as tires heat up during driving due to friction and other factors, which can cause a temporary rise in pressure. However, this is a normal and expected phenomenon. Instead of releasing air, it is crucial to check the tire pressure when the tires are cold—before driving or after the vehicle has been stationary for several hours.

If air is released from hot tires, it may result in under-inflation when the tires are at their normal operating temperature, which can lead to poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, increased tire wear, and the risk of blowouts. Maintaining the correct pressure based on cold tire readings ensures that the tires are within the manufacturer’s specifications for safe operation.