How to Check Tyre Pressure

Step 1: Find the Recommended Tyre Pressure

Before checking your tyre pressure, you need to know what it should be:

• Look for a sticker on the driver's side door jamb, inside the fuel door, or in the glove box
• Check your owner's manual
• The recommended pressure is usually between 30-35 PSI (210-240 kPa) for most passenger cars

Step 2: Check When Tyres Are Cold

For the most accurate reading, check your tyre pressure when the tyres are "cold" - meaning the car hasn't been driven for at least 3 hours. If you've been driving:

• Wait at least 30 minutes for the tyres to cool down
• Or add 2-3 PSI to the recommended pressure to compensate for warm tyres

Step 3: Check the Tyre Pressure

1. Remove the valve cap: Unscrew the plastic cap from the valve stem on the tyre and keep it in a safe place.
2. Press the gauge onto the valve stem: Press the tyre gauge firmly onto the valve stem. You may hear a slight hissing sound at first, but this should stop when the gauge is properly seated.
3. Read the pressure: For digital gauges, the reading will appear on the display. For dial gauges, read the number on the dial. For stick gauges, note how far the stick extends.
4. Record the reading: Note the PSI reading for each tyre, including the spare if your vehicle has one.

Step 4: Add Air If Needed

If any tyre is below the recommended pressure:

1. Connect the air compressor: Press the hose nozzle firmly onto the valve stem.
2. Add air in short bursts: Turn on the compressor and add air in short bursts, checking the pressure between each burst.
3. Recheck the pressure: Remove the hose and check the pressure again with your gauge.
4. Repeat if necessary: Continue adding air and checking until you reach the recommended pressure.

Step 5: Release Air If Needed

If any tyre is above the recommended pressure:

1. Press the center pin: Use the back of the gauge or a small tool to press the metal pin in the center of the valve stem.
2. Release air in short bursts: Let out a small amount of air at a time.
3. Recheck the pressure: Check the pressure again with your gauge.
4. Repeat if necessary: Continue releasing air and checking until you reach the recommended pressure.

Step 6: Replace the Valve Caps

Once all tyres are at the correct pressure, replace the valve caps. These caps help keep dirt and moisture out of the valve stems and prevent slow air leaks.

Tyre Keeps Losing Pressure

If a tyre consistently loses pressure over a short period:

• Check for a puncture by spraying soapy water on the tyre and looking for bubbles
• Inspect the valve stem for damage or leaks
• Check the wheel rim for damage that might cause a slow leak
• Have a professional check for a faulty tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensor

Action: If you find a leak, have it repaired by a professional as soon as possible.

Pressure Gauge Giving Inconsistent Readings

If your gauge gives different readings each time:

• Make sure you're pressing the gauge firmly and squarely onto the valve stem
• Check if the valve stem is dirty or damaged
• Try using a different gauge to compare readings

Action: Consider investing in a quality digital tyre pressure gauge for more consistent readings.

Tyre Pressure Warning Light Stays On

If your tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light remains on after adjusting the pressure:

• Make sure all tyres, including the spare (if monitored), are at the correct pressure
• Drive the vehicle for a few minutes to allow the system to recalibrate
• Check your owner's manual for instructions on resetting the TPMS
• A faulty TPMS sensor may need replacement

Action: If the light persists after checking all tyres, consult a professional mechanic.