Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for the overall performance of the tires of your vehicles. Driving with improperly inflated tires, i.e., if the air pressure inside the tires is more or less than the recommended level, increases the risk of wear and tears and tire failure. Overinflated or underinflated tires also provide lower gas mileage and can negatively impact your car’s integrity.

On the other hand, an adequately inflated tire ensures longer life, rapid steering response, and better fuel efficiency. To ensure your vehicle is running on properly inflated tires, you should check tire pressure regularly, preferably every month.

If you are new to this and want some guidance on how to check your tire pressure, we are here to help you. Keep reading to know more.

How to check tire pressure?
Tire pressure checking is a simple process involving only a few steps. If you have all the needed tools, maintaining tire pressure is a manageable task. Here are the things you would need for tire pressure checking:
    ● Tire pressure gauge
    ● Air compressor
    ● And a notepad and a pen

How to know the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle?
Different vehicles have different types of tires. The recommended tire pressure might vary depending on the vehicle you own. Usually, the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle can be found written on a sticker inside the driver's door. You can also find it in the vehicle's user manual.

In addition, you will notice tire pressure written on the sidewalls of the tires. That is the maximum permitted tire pressure. However, you should try to maintain the tire pressure listed in the door sticker or user manual.

How to check your tire pressure?
A. Start with cold tires.
According to experts, you should check tire pressure when the tires are cold. Tires are deemed to be cold when the vehicle has been parked for more than three hours or driven for less than a mile without exceeding the moderate speed range. The tire pressure is measured in the unit of pounds per square inch (psi). You will find the recommended tire pressure mentioned in this unit.

B. Note the recommended tire pressure.
The recommended tire pressure of the front and rear tires are usually different. You may want to note them down from the user manual to avoid confusion.

C. Check the pressure using a tire pressure gauge.
Now, remove the valve cap from one of the tires. You will hear the hissing sound of the air escaping from the tire. Take the tire pressure gauge and fit it into the valve stem. Press it hard enough so that the hissing sound is not audible anymore. When the gauge displays a reading, note it down. Replace the air valve cap after you remove the gauge.

Repeat the same for all the tires of your vehicle.

How to inflate your car tires?
If you find that the tire pressure is lower than recommended, you would have to refill it with air. Here are the steps you need to follow to inflate the tires of your vehicle:
    ● Park your vehicle near the air compressor in a position so that you can fill all the tires with the hose.
    ● Remove the valve cap of one of the tires.
    ● Push the hose nozzle down the valve stem. You might need to press a lever for the air to flow, or it will happen automatically.
    ● Once the tire is inflated enough, remove the hose nozzle. Use the pressure gauge to check whether it has reached the recommended level.
    ● If yes, close the valve. If not, let some air escape or fill the tire as required.
    ● Repeat the steps to fill all the tires.

How do you release excess air from the tires?
If the tires are overinflated, your vehicle may become prone to skidding and hydroplaning. Here are the steps you need to follow to release excess air from the tires:
    ● You will find a small bead at the back of the tire pressure gauge. Once you have fitted the gauge in the valve stem, press on the bead. You will hear the hissing sound of air escaping.
    ● When the gauge gives a reading close to the recommended psi level, remove it and replace the valve cap.

The Bottom Line:
The tires are one of the most important parts of your vehicle, and looking after them is crucial for your safety. Tire pressure tends to decrease over a period of time, thereby increasing the chance of poor handling. Thus, it is essential to check the tire pressures regularly. It will ensure that the tires continue to perform reliably, and your vehicle and you stay safe.

Categories：Tire Stories