Green Tire Valve Caps Could Save You Money at the Pump

A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.¹

And that’s where those green caps come in – they indicate that a tire is filled with nitrogen instead of regular air.

So, if you’re looking for a simple way to improve your vehicle’s performance while keeping more money in your wallet, it might be time to pay attention to those unassuming green caps. 

The Science Behind Nitrogen-Filled Tires

Nitrogen is a dry, inert gas that makes up about 78% of our air. It offers several advantages over regular compressed air when used to inflate tires. 

First, nitrogen molecules are larger than oxygen molecules, making them less likely to leak out of the tire over time. This helps maintain proper tire pressure for longer periods, reducing the need for frequent top-ups. (ref)

Additionally, nitrogen is less affected by temperature changes compared to air. This is important because as tires heat up during driving, the air inside expands, increasing tire pressure. 

This effect is minimized with nitrogen, resulting in more consistent tire pressure and improved fuel efficiency.

The Benefits of Nitrogen for Your Wallet

Properly inflated tires are crucial for optimal fuel economy.

Underinflated tires can lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop in pressure. Nitrogen-filled tires can help you save money on gas over time by maintaining more stable tire pressure.

Moreover, consistent tire pressure leads to more even tire wear, which can extend the life of your tires. This means you’ll need to replace your tires less frequently, saving you money in the long run. 

Plus, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable driving experience with a smoother ride and better handling.

Making the Switch to Nitrogen

If you’re interested in trying nitrogen-filled tires, the process is simple. Many tire shops and service centers now offer nitrogen inflation as an option.

The cost typically ranges from $5 to $10 per tire, and some places even offer unlimited refills for a one-time fee.

When your tires are filled with nitrogen, the technician will purge the air and moisture from them and refill them with pure nitrogen. 

The green valve caps are installed to indicate that the tires contain nitrogen. 

It’s important to note that if you ever need to top off your tires with regular air, it won’t cause any damage – it will just dilute the nitrogen and potentially reduce its benefits.

The Bottom Line on Nitrogen-Filled Tires

While nitrogen-filled tires offer several advantages, they’re not a magic solution for all your tire woes.

Regular tire maintenance, including proper inflation and rotation, is still essential for optimal performance and safety. 

However, if you’re looking for a simple way to potentially improve your fuel economy and extend the life of your tires, those little green valve caps might be worth a closer look.

So, the next time you’re at the tire shop, consider asking about nitrogen inflation.

It could be a small change that makes a big difference for your wallet – and your peace of mind on the road.

Source:

1. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration