Andrew Consumer Reports has some interesting comments on the current Impreza that might be worth a look.
Andrew Consumer Reports has some interesting comments on the current Impreza that might be worth a look.
This from the tire shop we use:
"Regardless of TPMS, we recommend tire pressure checks every 30 days. Properly maintained tire pressure decreases tire wear and improves vehicle safety, handling, braking and fuel mileage. Come in anytime for a free air check."
It's probably for their liability, but it sounds like you can't trust TPMS. I have a tire gauge I trust so I'll use more often now.
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t - you’re right."
- Henry Ford
Andrew, the shop's advise is good for sure. TPMS isn't a "be all, end all" thing and doesn't replace routine monitoring with a quality pressure tester. TPMS may not always be exact, but it's a nice feature to have, both for its warning ability and for the simple push of a button or three to check more frequently without getting too dirty or cold.
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The most expensive tool is the one you buy "cheaply" and often...
I was initially skeptical of TPMS and the early systems were vague. The latest ones seem to be excellent. My 2017 Honda Ridgeline not only shows me the pressure in each tire, it is accurate to 1lb plus or minus, which is about as accurate as the good gauges used in the car shop I also own. It completely removes the need to check it with a gauge. This surprised me based upon my experiences with TPMS systems even 5 years ago.
Did you still have your wallet in your back pocket? I used to really suffer on long trips in small-medium-sized vehicles until I learned to remove my wallet. Problem solved. Also, if the seat allows, raise the front edge to meet the back of your thighs to take some of the pressure off your buttocks.
Heavy vehicles with narrow tires don't hydroplane easily. I've also found that underinflated tires don't do well on snow--makes them wider and they don't cut through the snow then. For sand, yes, tires must be deflated so they don't sink and then can't climb out of their own hole.
Gotta be a little careful about underinflating though. I believe underinflation is thought to have been a contributing factor if not the primary factor in Ford Explorer rollovers, softer tires "rode better". Firestone was blamed at the time but after more research, perhaps the tires were not as responsible as first believed. At least that's what I've read.
Last edited by Curt Harms; 11-19-2017 at 8:28 AM.
Yea, there is less seat adjustability on the lower trim levels of most vehicles, including the Outback. I find the seats in Professor Dr. SWMBO's 2016 Outback Limited with Eyesight to be "nearly" as comfortable as those in my Grand Cherokee Overland Summit. The biggest difference is I can get more seat height in the Jeep so as to be in a slightly more "chair like" position. Our 2011 Outback Limited that my daughter now drives isn't quite as comfortable in the seat department as the 2016. It's going to be interesting to see how the new Ascent (3 row mid-size SUV) feels in the seat department...it's being officially announced on the 28th at the LA show.
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On the subject of under-inflation and hydroplaning, under-inflation tends to have the tires run on their edges with the center "bowing up" slightly and that allows more water to sit under the tread. With so little contact with the road, the risk for hydroplaning is increased.
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The most expensive tool is the one you buy "cheaply" and often...