Considering the nitrogen vs. regular air debate for your car tires? Let’s skip the fluff and break down the pros and cons of using nitrogen in tires. No gimmicks—just a straightforward look at whether it’s worth using nitrogen in your tires or not.

In this article, I’ll explain the differences between nitrogen and compressed air, why nitrogen is used in tires, and whether inflating your tires with nitrogen is worth the added cost.

Let’s jump right in…

What are Nitrogen-Filled Tires?

Nitrogen-filled tires are a relatively new concept in the automotive industry as an alternative to air. Instead of filling tires with regular air, which is composed of approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and trace amounts of other gases, nitrogen-filled tires are filled with nothing except nitrogen.

The main advantage of using Nitrogen in tires

Nitrogen has some cool benefits when it’s used for more than filling balloons and changing your voice at parties.

Nitrogen Pros

  • More Stable Tire Pressure
  • Reduced Internal Wheel Oxidation
  • Improved Fuel Efficiency
  • Temperature Stability

nitrogen Cons

  • Cost
  • Availability
  • Minimally Notacable Impact

Nitrogen atoms are bigger than oxygen atoms and because of this, nitrogen has a harder time escaping the tire, keeping the pressure where it needs to be.

Tires inflated with nitrogen resist pressure fluctuations and hold overall inflation pressure much longer than standard air. 

Read the science behind Nitrogen 

The element Nitrogen on the periotic table - jerrypetrillo.com
The element Nitrogen on the periotic table – jerrypetrillo.com

What is the cost associated with nitrogen tire inflation?

Filling your car’s tires with nitrogen will cost you.

According to consumer reports the cost of using nitrogen in tires averages 5 dollars per tire. The price can be higher depending on the area.

The special compressors needed to produce the gas cost big money, well into the thousands. Tire shops need to recover the money on their investment somehow.

A compressor that is specifically designed to put nitrogen in tires - jerrypetrillo.com
A compressor that is specifically designed to put nitrogen in tires – jerrypetrillo.com

How long has nitrogen been used in car tires?

The concept of using nitrogen in tires isn’t new.

Nitrogen has been used for decades in certain industries such as aviation and vehicle racing where tires need to perform at 110%

The aviation industry has long recognized the benefits of using nitrogen in aircraft tires, it helps maintain tire pressure more consistently at high altitudes and reduces the risk of tire failure, a win-win for airplanes and their passengers. 

Advantages of Nitrogen-Filled Tires

There are some advantages to using nitrogen-filled tires over regular air-filled tires. 

Improved Fuel Efficiency with Nitrogen-Filled Tires: One of the key advantages of using nitrogen-filled tires is improved fuel efficiency.

Properly inflated tires can significantly impact a vehicle’s fuel consumption. When tires are underinflated, they create more rolling resistance, which requires the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

According to fueleconomy.gov, underinflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 3%.

Drawing of a gas station - jerrypetrillo.com
Drawing of a gas station – jerrypetrillo.com

Nitrogen-filled tires maintain proper tire pressure for a longer period compared to regular air-filled tires.

By maintaining optimal tire pressure, nitrogen-filled tires reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency.

Several studies have evaluated the impact of nitrogen-filled tires on fuel efficiency. An investigative study led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) deduced that tires filled with nitrogen contribute to the enhancement of fuel economy by approximately 6%.

Another study conducted by Consumer Reports found that nitrogen-filled tires can improve fuel efficiency by 1-2%.

Enhanced Tire Life and Durability with Nitrogen: Alongside conserving fuel economy, nitrogen-filled tires promote longevity and durability.

Regular air contains moisture, which causes the inside of the tire to degrade over time, increasing the chance of leaks or a blowout (in extreme cases.)

Nitrogen, on the other hand, is dry and inert, which means it doesn’t react with the rubber or cause corrosion inside of a wheel. This helps extend the life of the tire and ensures it remains in good condition longer.

Can nitrogen-filled tires Improve Braking Performance?

Yes, nitrogen-filled tires can improve braking.

Proper tire pressure is crucial for effective braking, as underinflated tires can increase stopping distances and reduce overall braking performance.

Drawing of a car moving fast - jerrypetrillo.com
Drawing of a car moving fast – jerrypetrillo.com

Nitrogen-filled tires help maintain optimal tire pressure, which ensures that the tires have maximum contact with the road surface, resulting in better grip and shorter stopping distances.

Studies have shown time after time that properly inflated tires can reduce stopping distances. This can be particularly beneficial in emergencies where every inch counts.

Does Nitrogen Reduce Tire Pressure Loss?

Nitrogen-filled tires help maintain proper tire pressure for a longer period. Nitrogen molecules are larger than oxygen molecules.

This means they are less likely to escape through the rubber of the tire. This leads to consistent tire pressure and reduces the need for frequent inflation.

Research has shown car tires filled with nitrogen can maintain correct tire inflation pressure for up to three times longer than standard air-filled tires.

Will Nitrogen Improve Handling and Stability?

Proper tire pressure is crucial for optimal handling and stability.

Underinflated or overinflated tires can seriously affect the way a car handles. Nitrogen-filled tires help maintain optimal tire pressure, ensuring that the tires have maximum contact with the road and perform as designed.

Properly inflated tires provide better grip on the road, especially during cornering and maneuvering. This improves overall handling and allows drivers to maintain better control of their vehicles.

Nitrogen keeps your tires inflated properly for a longer period.

Several studies have evaluated the impact of nitrogen-filled tires on handling and stability. One study conducted by Michelin found that nitrogen-filled tires can improve vehicle stability.

Another study conducted by Bridgestone found that nitrogen-filled tires can improve steering response and cornering ability.

Do nitrogen-filled tires perform better in Extreme Temperatures?

Extreme temperatures can have a significant impact on tire performance and safety.

A drawing of a freezing car tire - jerrypetrillo.com
A drawing of a freezing car tire – jerrypetrillo.com

Nitrogen molecules don’t get all worked up over temperature like oxygen molecules. This means that nitrogen-filled tires are less likely to expand or contract excessively in response to temperature fluctuations.

This consistency helps maintain proper tire pressure and ensures that the tires perform optimally in both hot and cold weather conditions.

nitrogen in tires: The final call

Let me wrap this up by saying that nitrogen-filled tires offer numerous benefits over regular air-filled tires.

This includes improved fuel efficiency, enhanced tire life and durability, better braking performance, reduced risk of blowouts, reduced tire pressure loss, improved handling and stability, and better performance in extreme temperatures.

These advantages make nitrogen-filled tires a good choice for your car if you have the extra money.

While I like the benefits nitrogen offers, the initial cost of nitrogen-filled tires is a little high for me and the benefits aren’t hugely noticeable.

Overall, nitrogen-filled tires provide a reliable solution for drivers who want to optimize their driving experience. Whether it’s improved fuel efficiency, enhanced safety features, or better handling and stability, nitrogen-filled tires offer a range of benefits that can slightly enhance the performance and safety of any vehicle.

Q&A

Is it OK to mix regular air and nitrogen in tires?

Yes, you can safely mix regular air and nitrogen in tires, however, keep in mind that nitrogen is dry and inert and adding air will introduce moisture and counteract the benefits of nitrogen.

How long does nitrogen last in tires?

Nitrogen will last approx 3-4 months before pressure will need to be topped up.

Is there anywhere that puts nitrogen in tires for free?

At the time of this writing, Costco offers free nitrogen for all new tire installations.

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