Tire Temperature Gauge - How much faith?

[mcurtis137]

I have a 2026 CT5 BW with the Cup 2 tires. Recently in the Bay Area we have been experiencing unusually cold but dry weather, meaning that during my 30 mile freeway commute I am seeing temperatures as low as 43 but closer to an average of 48.

I have noticed that after about 15 minutes on the freeway the tire temperature gauge will go from cool to normal (PSI from about 32 to 36.)

Would you interpret this as meaning the tires are fully functional at this point despite outside temps in the mid 40s?

I am a risk averse driver, so I am looking more for peace of mind than a greenlight to drive aggressively.

This is not my only car but obviously would like to drive it when conditions permit.

Thanks!

 

[coffee_time]

43° on cup 2s is.. not what I would do.

 

[1Evil55]

Just don't drive it like you stole it and you'll be fine. Adding snow/sleet/rain into the mix and I'd slow down a little more. Having grown up and learning to drive through snow is a life lesson similar to swimming. My youngest is learning to drive now, legally with a permit. After the recent snow we had I couldn't wait to get her out to a local parking lot where she originally had one of her first drives but this time to do donuts! Well sort of. It was a perfect opportunity to give her the experience and lesson without fear of injury to others.

 

[mfcentex]

It seems to always take 15-20 minutes to warm up my tires to Normal. I take it easy when it's Cool. In the summer, I consider Normal ready to go. Traction won't be as good with colder road temps.

 

[mcurtis137]

It seems to always take 15-20 minutes to warm up my tires to Normal. I take it easy when it's Cool. In the summer, I consider Normal ready to go. Traction won't be as good with colder road temps.

In your opinion, if the tire temperature gauge is showing as "normal" should this be treated the same regardless of outside temps? Like it doesn't matter if it's 45 degrees or 75 degrees? That's what I am trying to get at with how much weight I give the temperature gauge on its own vs. other factors.

 

[1Evil55]

Tire temp readings are only as good as outside surface temps. If it's 40F and your tires show normal temps, the ground is still near frozen and I'd drive like it.

 

[mcurtis137]

Tire temp readings are only as good as outside surface temps. If it's 40F and your tires show normal temps, the ground is still near frozen and I'd drive like it.

Makes sense, thank you

 

[wfdeacon88]

I was curious last week about this same thing... Some input from AI for what it's worth..

"Yes, the tires will gain SOME grip as they warm from driving… but the ambient temperature still heavily limits the maximum grip available.

Summer tires do not fully “come alive” in cold ambient temps — even when the tread warms up on the temperature gauge"