Pump Up the Pressure: How to Check Your Car's Tire Pressure
April 10, 2023
8 min read
Under-inflated tires can cause increased fuel consumption, reduce the tire's life, affect the vehicle's handling and braking, and even result in a blowout. In contrast, over-inflated tires can lead to a harsher ride, decreased handling, and increased risk of hydroplaning.
To avoid the inconvenience and cost of premature tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and a bumpy ride, it's critical to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them properly. Properly inflated tires will keep your car running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring you enjoy a comfortable ride while saving money at the pump.
Tools You Will Need in Checking Your Car’s Tire Pressure and Inflate Them Properly
Tire Pressure Gauge
Checking your car’s tire pressure regularly is crucial to ensure your safety and prolong the life of your tires. To do this, you’ll need a reliable tire pressure gauge. A quality gauge should be accurate, readable, and have a pressure range that matches your car's tires.
Digital gauges are more precise than mechanical ones, and some even have built-in features like a backlight or an audible alert when the correct pressure is reached. Always keep the gauge in a safe and easily accessible location, like the glove compartment, to make checking your tire pressure a routine part of your driving maintenance.
Air Compressor (Optional)
Inflating your tires properly is just as important as checking the pressure. You can use a handheld air compressor to air your tires properly. Look for one compatible with your car's tire pressure range and has a long enough cord to reach all four tires. Modern air compressors have an automatic shut-off feature, so you don't have to worry about over-inflating your tires.
Some also come with built-in LED lights or flashlights, making them easy to use in low-light conditions. While an air compressor isn't strictly necessary, it can save time and money in the long run by allowing you to inflate your tires at home instead of making frequent trips to the gas station.
Finding the Recommended Tire Pressure
Checking the Owner’s Manual: The owner's manual is one of the most reliable sources for finding the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. It provides all the necessary information about the car, including the recommended tire pressure specific to your make and model.
The manual also provides instructions on how to check and maintain the tire pressure to ensure optimal performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. Reviewing the owner's manual is essential in ensuring your tires are properly inflated and your vehicle is safe and reliable on the road.
Looking for a Sticker on the Driver’s Side Doorjamb: Another way to find the recommended tire pressure is to look for a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb. This sticker provides information about the tire size, recommended tire pressure, and other details specific to your vehicle.
This information is crucial to ensure that you have the correct tire pressure for your car, which can affect your vehicle's handling, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. In addition, the sticker is easy to locate and provides a quick reference point for checking your tire pressure.
Checking the Manufacturer’s Website: If you cannot find the recommended tire pressure in the owner's manual or on the driver's side doorjamb, you can check the manufacturer's website. The website provides detailed information about your vehicle's make and model, including the recommended tire pressure and other essential details related to tire maintenance.
You can also find additional resources on the website, such as instructional videos and articles, to help you maintain your tires and ensure optimal performance. Checking the manufacturer's website is an excellent option for those who want to double-check their tire pressure or need additional information about tire maintenance.
Checking Tire Pressure
Removing the Valve Cap
Checking tire pressure can be a simple and quick task that ensures your vehicle is running at its best. To begin, take off the valve cap from the tire. This small step allows you to access the valve stem, where you will press the gauge to measure the tire pressure.
As you remove the valve cap, take a moment to appreciate the intricate design of this often-overlooked component. The valve cap keeps dirt and debris from clogging the valve and protects it from damage. You could even personalize your valve caps to add a touch of personality to your car.
Pressing the Gauge Onto the Valve Stem
Once the valve cap is removed, attaching the tire pressure gauge to the valve stem is time. The indicator should fit snugly onto the valve stem to get an accurate reading. As you press the gauge onto the branch, consider the simplicity of this action - just a few seconds of effort can help you save fuel and ensure the safety of your vehicle. Additionally, taking care when attaching the gauge can prevent damaging the valve stem, which could lead to costly repairs down the line.
Reading the Pressure on the Gauge
With the gauge attached, it's time to read the tire pressure. This small device can provide vital information about the state of your tires. As you read the gauge, notice the small increments between the numbers representing pounds per square inch (PSI).
By checking the pressure regularly, you can quickly identify any changes in your tire pressure and address them before they become a bigger problem. It's an excellent way to stay on top of your vehicle's maintenance and avoid costly and potentially dangerous issues down the road.
Checking All Four Tires
Once you've checked the pressure in one tire, you must check all four. Each tire may have different pressure levels, depending on the vehicle's weight distribution, so it's crucial to inflate all the tires adequately. This step is significant for optimizing your vehicle's handling and performance.
Take the time to go around to each tire, remove the valve caps, and attach the gauge before reading the pressure. By checking all four tires, you can be sure your vehicle is running at its best and avoid potential safety hazards.
Inflating Tires
Using an Air Compressor
Inflating tires using an air compressor can quickly and efficiently fill up your tires with air. The compressor uses compressed air to inflate the tire to the recommended pressure. The sound of the compressor and the rush of air can create a satisfying feeling as you watch your tires come to life. Using the correct attachments and following the manufacturer's instructions is essential to ensure the correct pressure is achieved without over-inflation.
Adding Air in Short Bursts
Adding air in short bursts can be a helpful technique for inflating tires. This method allows you to monitor the pressure as you add air and avoid over-inflation. It can also help prevent the tire from overheating, which can cause damage. Short bursts of air can also evenly distribute the air in the tire, making it easier to achieve the recommended pressure.
Checking the Pressure Again
After adding air to the tire, it's essential to recheck the pressure to ensure it has reached the recommended level. You can use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure and ensure accuracy. Rechecking the pressure can also help identify any leaks or issues with the tire that must address.
Repeating Until the Recommended Pressure Is Reached
The tire pressure is not at the recommended level after the first attempt, repeating the process can help to achieve the desired pressure. Adding air in small bursts and checking the pressure after each effort is essential to avoid over-inflation. Repeating the process may take a few tries, but ensuring the tire is inflated correctly prevents uneven wear, loss of control, and other potential hazards.
Tips for Maintaining Correct Tire Pressure
Checking Tires Regularly
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for your safety on the road and the lifespan of your tires. Checking your tire pressure regularly is the key to ensuring your tires are correctly inflated. You should check your tire pressure at least once a month and always before going on a long trip. This will help you detect potential issues, such as leaks or punctures, and avoid further damage to your tires.
Checking Before Long Trips
Before embarking on a long trip, checking your tire pressure is crucial. Long drives can strain your tires, and incorrect tire pressure can lead to a higher risk of blowouts, decreased fuel efficiency, and poor handling. Therefore, ensure that your tires are correctly inflated before hitting the road. It's also a good idea to give your tires a quick visual inspection for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Avoiding Overinflation
keeping your tires properly inflated is essential; it's equally important to keep them from inflating. Overinflated tires can lead to a harsher ride, reduced traction, and an increased risk of blowouts.
To avoid overinflation, always check your tire pressure when your tires are cold (before driving), and use the manufacturer's recommended pressure levels. Also, avoid inflating your tires beyond the recommended pressure, even if it might improve fuel efficiency or handling.
Checking the Spare Tire
Many drivers need to check the pressure in their spare tire, assuming it will always be ready when needed. However, light tires can lose pressure over time, primarily if used sparingly. So make sure to check your spare tire's pressure regularly and ensure that it's properly inflated. You want to avoid being stuck with a flat spare tire when you need it the most. Additionally, if your spare tire is old or damaged, it's best to replace it immediately.
