Is using Nitrogen a bunch of hot air

Originally Posted by 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.

Originally Posted by 370Zsteve

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

Originally Posted by ChrisSlicks

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