How Do I Check And Adjust My Car or Trucks Tire Pressure?
Though important, checking your tire pressure is one of the simplest (to do) and most basic parts of car and truck, tire care and maintenance. Properly inflated tires have a number of benefits, including: increased safety and comfort, and improved fuel efficiency and performance.
But, even as easy as this task may seem to some, many drivers aren’t quite sure how to properly check their tire’s air pressure or what to do if they find that tire pressure levels are off.
How Do You Find The Correct Tire Pressure?
First, tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch or psi. Most passenger cars recommend 32 to 35 psi. For newer vehicles, you can find the recommended tire pressure on the drivers side door jam, otherwise it can be found in your cars owners manual. Some automakers have also placed this information on the underside of the hood or on the inside of the gas tank door.
If ever you’ve noticed the Maximum Pressure (i.e. 44 PSI) on your tires sidewall, it’s important to note, tire pressure ratings found on the tire sidewall are only an indication of the maximum psi at which the tire can safely operate.
What Do You Need To Check Tire Pressure?
Now that we have a better understanding of how to find and determine our correct tire pressure, let’s talk about the tools needed to check your tires pressure. Fortunately, it’s a pretty simple task. All you’ll need is a tire gauge. For a few dollars a simple tire pressure gauge, aka tire pencil, will do. Digital tire gauges, which are easier to read, are also a growing choice for a number of consumers.
If you’re using an analog stick or tire pencil, a small, white, metered stick will extend from the end of the gauge, indicating the amount of pressure within the tire. Some newer, analog tire gauges have a circular meter that display the air pressure based on a needle measuring, starting from the bottom left in a clockwise direction, your tires pressure in psi.
In the event that your tire pressure is incorrect, and depending on whether you have nitrogen or “regular” air in your tires, you’ll need access to an air pump, which can often be found at a nearby gas station, or a local tire professional, who may also offer nitrogen services.
For more information on which “air” to use in your tires, read our post on Air vs. Nitrogen – Which Is Better For Your Tires? Ok, so what are we checking for with tire pressure?
Check Your Tires For Under-Inflation
Under-inflation is one of the most common tire issues, but one that is easily preventable and correctable. Varying temperatures can affect the rate at which your tires lose air. Cooler temperatures at night can actually drop your tires air pressure 4 to 6 PSI (pounds per square inch). If this isn’t monitored regularly, you’re more likely to drive on under inflated tires. Prolonged under inflation leads to premature tire wear and a possible tire blow out, if the issue is not properly taken care of.
Proper tire inflation is also a great way to avoid other issues down the road. By having your tires properly inflated at all times, you not only avoid the leading cause of tire failure, you’ll also save money on fuel and the need to purchase new tires sooner than expected.
It’s important to note, air pressure readings are most accurate when tires are completely cooled down.
How Often & When Should You Check Your Tire Pressure?
So how often and when should you check and adjust your tire pressure? The simple answer is, as often as is necessary. The most common recommendation, though, suggests checking tire pressure once a month. Other than safely to your nearest tire filling station, you should not drive around on improperly inflated tires.
At Next Tires we encourage regular visual checks of your tires. We’re calling it Tire Check Tuesday. More frequent visual inspections of your tires will help you discover and correct any issues sooner. It only takes a few moments to walk around your vehicle and have a look. It could be the difference between a carefree and comfortable drive or a costly detour. Check more often. Your tires, your vehicle, and your wallet will thank you!
As for when exactly, experts recommend you wait several hours after your vehicle was last driven. Allowing your tires to properly cool will give you a more accurate tire pressure reading. But if you suspect your tires are low on pressure and you’re driving, safely move off the road and measure the pressure. This is important for safety, comfort and fuel efficiency.
How To Check Tire Pressure
With your tire pressure gauge in hand, let’s first locate the valve stem and remove the cover or cap, which should screw off easily. Line your tire gauge up over the valve stem and press firmly. If you hear air escaping, you’ll need to create a greater seal. Adjust the tire gauge (slightly) on the tires valve stem until you no longer hear air escaping. Once you’ve measured your tires air pressure, compare the reading with the vehicle’s recommended air pressure.
If the gauge indicates that the pressure is below the recommended levels, fill the tire with an air pump. Many gas station air pumps have built in gauges that you can set to stop or notify you when the correct pressure is reached. You can also visit your local tire professional, especially if you need other services, like nitrogen to fill your tires. If you have access to an air compressor and a tire gauge attachment, you may also fill your tires this way.
There are many myths and wives tales about the so-called benefits of under- or over- inflating your tires, which we won’t get into. What‘s important to remember is, improperly inflated tires can pose significant safety risks. It’s best to stick to the tire pressure indicated by the car or truck manufacturer or your local tire professional.
For additional tires 101 maintenance tips, read our post, How Do I Care For My Tires?
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Thank you for allowing us to share with you these tire maintenance tips at NextTires.com. Now you know a few more ways to take care of and extend the life of your tires!
If you have any questions regarding tire pressure or if you’re shopping for new tires, Call Us at 1-800-713-4728. We’re here to help! You can also email us at support@nexttires.com. We’d like the opportunity to save you some money and win your business as a Next Tires customer! For a limited time, shop our new tires for sale and Save w/ Free Shipping and the Next Tires Risk Free Guarantee.** We look forward to speaking with and helping you with your next tires!
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