Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is a system and method for improving vehicle operating conditions through the monitoring and adjustment of tire pressure in response to changing conditions. The system improves commercial vehicle productivity by reducing tire and fuel expenses, improving traction when needed, and reducing tire-induced shock-load damage to the vehicle axles and chassis. In another aspect, the invention is a tire management system, comprised of a tire inflation and deflation system positioned onboard said vehicle and operationally controlled by an onboard microprocessor-based control unit or by a remote centralized control-unit.