Is using Nitrogen a bunch of hot air

6spd

No, no, no, none of these reasons are why nitrogen is used. The real reason, although hidden from the public, is much more reasonable than these stupid performance claims. Nitrogen is used because of the new TPM systems used in new cars. These units are made of metal. Regular air contains a slight amount of water vapor, and more is created with the heating of the tire. This water eventually corrodes the sensor units and contributes to their failing, ala the reason so many cars all of a sudden develop TPMS problems. Nitrogen doesnt contain any water vapor and therefore cannot corrode the sensors over time. It is used as a convenient cover up for manufacturers botched TPMS sensor quality. New units are being made of plastic, so nitrogen may see its way into extinction. You won't find this info anywhere or hear it from any dealer, only technician magazines, etc. Just an FYI, so spread the word, more people need to know of this scam and demand better manufacturer quality, not costly cover ups.

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XwChriswX

I thought it was because Nitrogen molecules are larger than 'air' molecules (Yes I understand Nitrogen accounts for 78% of 'air' but since were talking about it). So that it takes less Nitrogen to fill your tire than compressed air, but that at the same time, it also fills your tires more effectively for even tire wear?

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ChrisSlicks

Oxygen molecules are only roughly 3% smaller than Nitrogen molecules. The gases in their elementary form also expand and contract at the same rate which partially debunks the pressure change with temperature claim. I say partially because they will pick up some stability by using purified Nitrogen as it will be free of water vapor. You could essentially use any purified gas as a fill just Nitrogen happens to be the most plentiful and hence the cheapest. I should fill mine with Nitrous Oxide and sell people "hits" of my tires.

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370Zsteve

Oxygen also oxidizes the sensors. I do know that nitrogen is used in airplane tires.

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ChrisSlicks

Probably they use it to prevent the water vapor from freezing inside the tire, would create a horrible imbalance on landing.

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370Zsteve

that's exactly why

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kevr6

Nitrogen is not required. This is probably due to the valve stem sensor battery life failing before any corrosion issues. They claim 8 to 10 yrs but I've seen 3 to 5 yrs.
I work for Audi and it is not required to have Nitrogen and all dealerships do not offer it! End of conspiracy!

Just an FYI! The new TPMS systems are not going to require sensors in the valve stems anymore. Indirect TPMS is going to be the future for all vehicles.
This system uses the wheel speed sensors to monitor any change in radius/rotation speed characteristics. No sensors, transmitters, or receivers needed so swapping out wheels and tires doesn't require all the expense.

Audi is the first vehicle manufacturer that is standardizing on this indirect TPMS system right now. Like FSI, CVT and DSG, other manufacturers will follow with their versions.

As far as the Nitrogen goes, Those who have used it should be who chimes in. I thought it was bull untill I started using it. Simple as that. I have customers who deny and tell us it's bogus and throw all their knowledge on why, and that's fine. First hand experience doesn't lie. Definately coming from a sceptic!

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Zigen5

It has its good sides and bad sides... I've used it and you really can't tell the difference. Its suppose to make your tires wear evenly. IMO its not worth it. I believe I paid $50 for all for tires and unlimited refills. Bad thing is that if you have a leak, you can't fill it with air at your local gas station. I'll wait until it's available everywhere including gas stations..

dad

Balance, alignment, the proper inflation of tires, and how you drive, are the determining factor on tire wear.

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ZKindaGuy

FTW!!!