What Are the Disadvantages of Nitrogen Tyre?
There are some disadvantages as well in having nitrogen air in tyres. Here are some points to consider before making the switch for nitrogen tyre, including:
One of the prominent deterrents to nitrogen inflated tyres is the cost. Nitrogen comes with a relatively higher price tag, unlike the readily available oxygen that can be used to fill your tyres. This additional expense can be a notable drawback, especially when comparing it to simply inflating your tyres with normal air, often free at gas stations and repair shops. While the advantages of nitrogen are appealing, the investment might not align with everyone's budget.
Once you go for nitrogen in tyres, you sign up for a different maintenance routine. While it is true that nitrogen offers a range of benefits, it comes with a catch – you can't simply mix it with normal air. Combining the two gases dilutes nitrogen's advantages and diminishes its ability to maintain stable pressure and temperature. It means you must be mindful about where you fill up your tyres. Finding a nitrogen filling station becomes a priority, and you must ensure that every top-up is pure nitrogen. This careful management can be seen as a minor hassle, especially for those who are used to the convenience of regular air filling.
In the world of convenience, finding a nitrogen-filling station can sometimes feel like a scavenger hunt. Unlike the ubiquity of regular air-filling stations, nitrogen isn't as readily available everywhere you go. It can pose a challenge, especially when you are on the road and need a quick tyre top-up. Finding specific fuel stations or tyre dealers offering nitrogen-filling services can be time-consuming. This lack of accessibility can deter some drivers from considering nitrogen as a viable option for their tyres.
Nitrogen availability can be a significant drawback. Not all fuel stations or tyre dealers offer services of filling nitrogen in tyres. This limited availability might mean you must go out of your way to find a suitable location for tyre maintenance. This inconvenience can be a deal-breaker for individuals who prefer the ease and accessibility of regular air-filling stations, especially when travelling or during emergencies.
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Negligible Benefits for Everyday Drivers
While the benefits of nitrogen are well-documented, it's worth noting that the advantages might not be as pronounced for everyday drivers. While nitrogen's stability and pressure retention offer compelling advantages for high-performance vehicles or specific driving conditions, the average driver might not notice a significant difference in their day-to-day driving experience. It might lead some individuals to question whether the added expense and effort are worth it.
Nitrogen Vs Standard Air Which is Better for Tyres
Let us break the discussion of nitrogen vs normal air in tyres down even further. Here is a head-to-head comparison between nitrogen and standard air:
Parameters |
Nitrogen |
Normal Air |
Cost of Inflation
|
Higher cost
|
Lower or no cost
|
Availability
|
Not always readily available.
|
Easily accessible at all fuel stations.
|
Pressure Retention
|
Retains pressure longer
|
Pressure loss similar to nitrogen
|
Tyre Temperature
|
Cooler than tyres filled with normal air.
|
Higher temperature than nitrogen-filled tyres.
|
Maintenance
|
Tricky to maintain mix-free nitrogen
|
Simple and straightforward
|
Tyre Wear
|
Slower wear due to stable pressure
|
Faster wear due to unstable pressure
|
Safety
|
Safer due to stable pressure range. Hence, the chances of tyre explosion are very low.
|
Less safe due to pressure fluctuations. Hence, the chances of tyre explosion are high.
|
How Safe Are Nitrogen Filled Tyres?
Nitrogen air in tyres offer enhanced safety due to their stable pressure range. Unlike standard air-filled tyres, which can experience pressure fluctuations, nitrogen maintains consistent pressure, reducing the risk of blowouts and ensuring a safer driving experience. This stability, even in extreme temperatures, gives drivers more confidence on the road, making nitrogen-filled tyres a reliable choice for those prioritising safety. While nitrogen might be the right choice for some drivers seeking enhanced performance and safety, others might find that the convenience and cost-effectiveness of regular air filling better suit their needs.
Cost of Nitrogen Filling in Car Tyres
The cost of filling nitrogen in tyres varies based on location and existing inflation. For a top-up, it may range around Rs. 10 per tyre if already filled with nitrogen, totalling Rs. 40 to Rs. 50 for all four tyres. For the initial filling, costs can range from Rs. 40 to Rs. 50 per tyre due to the need for multiple inflation and deflation cycles to remove oxygen. Prices may vary, so checking with nearby fuel stations or tyre dealers is recommended.
Car insurance typically does not cover the cost of filling tyres with nitrogen. However, having car insurance is essential. It provides protection against financial losses from accidents, theft, or damage, offering peace of mind and legal compliance on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nitrogen Inflated
Can you mix air and nitrogen in tires?
No, combining both defeats the purpose of using nitrogen and diminishes its benefits. For instance, nitrogen's stable properties, such as pressure retention and temperature stability, are compromised by introducing regular air. The larger oxygen molecules in the air can permeate through the tyre rubber more easily than nitrogen, leading to pressure fluctuations and temperature sensitivity.
Is filling nitrogen more expensive than filling normal air?
Yes, nitrogen inflation comes at a higher cost compared to regular air. Many factors, like the production and handling process. Nitrogen needs specialised equipment and controlled conditions, contributing to its higher cost than readily available normal air.
Does filling nitrogen improve the ride quality of my car?
Absolutely! Nitrogen's stable pressure retention can lead to a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. Nitrogen's stable pressure retention minimises pressure fluctuations during driving, ensuring a consistent and comfortable ride. This stability translates to smoother handling, reduced vibrations, and improved road grip, providing a more enjoyable and comfortable driving experience, especially on longer journeys or high-speed highways.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
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