Tyre pressure is an important topic for every driver, and checking it is the only way to ensure proper handling, sterling, and overall safety for all passengers. However, the fast-paced world we are living in can sometimes make it impossible for us to check if everything is fine with the tyres or their pressure.
Luckily, most modern cars come with built-in tyre pressure sensors and systems that alert the driver whenever the pressure in a tyre has been lost and by how much. Doing a manual check is a great way to know what are the tyre pressure levels in each tyre – especially because too low or too high-pressure levels lead to handling and steering problems and increase the risk of accidents.
The Easiest Way To Check Your Tyre Pressure
Many drivers don’t know what is the best time to check their vehicle’s tyre pressure, which often leads to negligence. We generally advise on checking your tyre pressure when you refuel (at least once a month), which will also give you time to inflate your tyres if needed, and the right equipment next to you.
Manual tyre pressure checks can be done at home, too – the only prerequisite is a device called a tyre pressure gauge, which detects the pressure levels in your tyres. There are plenty of mechanical tyre pressure gauges which work without batteries and will never run out. Having one at home can help you inspect your pressure whenever you detect a loss.
If you recently got such an inexpensive device or want to check your tyre pressure on a fuel station, here is how to do it right:
- Check for the recommended tyre pressure levels (on your door’s inner opening or your owner’s manual)
- Unscrew the cap on the air valve of your tyre
- Push your tyre pressure gauge firmly onto your tyre valve
- Look at the pressure reading on the gauge (or the electronic indicator on a fuel station)
- If the reading is low, make sure to attach your air hose to the tyre valve and increase the pressure to the correct level. You can double-check with your own gauge as well.
- Screw the cap back onto your tyre’s air valve.
What Is The Correct Tyre Pressure For My Car?
To know the right tyre pressure for your vehicle, check your vehicle’s owner manual or a label located inside the front door opening, which is the usual place for this information. Keep in mind to add psi to the recommended tyre pressure level (in order to account for the increase in temperature and pressure). The correct pressures for your car can be different for the front and rear tyres,
Rotating your car’s tyres and wheels can also help you with maintaining the correct tyre pressure and making sure that the wear across all four tyres is even. This extends the lifespan of your tyres and is generally recommended by all tyre manufacturers. However, there is a correct way to do this, which is why you should get advice from a professional.
If your tyre’s tread is worn down to the bars on any part of the tyre, you are probably driving at the legal minimum and need to replace your worn-out or damaged tyres.
Why Is It Important To Check For Tyre Pressure Regularly?
We all know that tyres are the single point of contact between the vehicle and the ground. They also carry the entire weight of the vehicle, going through rough roads, potholes, bumps, hills, and whatnot else. As they naturally lose a bit of air every month, it is important to check your tyre pressure on a regular basis.
Finally, tyre pressure is one of the most significant factors related to the overall vehicle performance, especially when it comes to handling and steering. Making sure your tyre pressure levels are okay gives you more comfort and accuracy while driving.
