 |
A High-Pressure Situation
Pete Candela is a AAA ASE-certified auto expert with over 30 years' experience.
Pete, I know there’s an air pressure listing on the tire’s sidewall, one on the left doorjamb, and then there’s the owner’s manual. Which one do I follow?
–Mary Q.
For tire pressure specs, your first resource should always be the owner’s manual. That information should be consistent with that of the doorjamb. If the owner’s manual is not available, then obviously the doorjamb is your trusted source. You should not go by the pressure spec on the tires for a couple of reasons. First, the tires on your car may not be the tires that originally came with your vehicle. Also, in some cases the pressure listed on the tire’s sidewall is the ”maximum” pressure. I don’t recommend inflating your tires to their maximum pressure specification because it may cause premature wear, poor handling and a harsh ride. I also recommend checking the air pressure in your tires at least once per month. This will aid in getting the most life out of your tires and increase your fuel economy.
Pete, I have severe arthritis in my hands, and it is almost impossible for me to pump my own gas. Do you have a list of full-service gas stations in my area?
–Linda J.
Unfortunately, AAA no longer maintains a local listing of full-service gas stations, due in part to the decline of this service over the past 20 years. However, if you have been medically declared “disabled,” under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) you are entitled to have your gas pumped for you (if feasible) at self-service stations. You must be able to show proof of disability, such as the familiar blue mirror hanger. According to the ADA, a service station must:
- Provide refueling assistance upon the request of an individual with a disability. A service station or convenience store is not required to provide such service when it is operating on a remote control basis with a single employee, but it is encouraged to do so if feasible.
- Let patrons know (e.g., through appropriate signs) that customers with disabilities can obtain refueling assistance by either honking or otherwise signaling an employee.
- Provide refueling assistance without any charge beyond the self-serve price.
TO “ASK PETE” AN AUTOMOTIVE QUESTION
write to:
AAA Going Places Magazine • Ask Pete
1515 N. Westshore Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33607