How to check tyre pressure
Take a moment to stop and think. When was the last time you checked your tyre pressure? If it’s been more than a few weeks – or worse, you can’t remember – then it could be time to check your tyres again to ensure your vehicle is safe and efficient to drive.
We say safe and efficient because tyre pressure doesn’t just affect the roadworthiness of your vehicle. It can make you more likely to experience a breakdown or accident, but even if that doesn’t happen, having underinflated tyres can mean your car uses up more fuel and money to get you where you need to go.
So, keeping on top of your vehicle’s tyre pressure can save you time, money and the pain and inconvenience of a road accident. Let’s take a look at how and when it should be done.
How do you check tyre pressure?
The first thing to remember is that you should always wait until your tyres are cold before checking the pressure, as warm tyres can affect the reading. To do this, it’s best to allow your car to be parked for three or four hours – or overnight, if that’s easier. Then you can begin the check.
- Know the correct tyre pressure
Different vehicles will have a different ideal tyre pressure, so there’s no one universal figure to aim for. However, the manufacturers of your particular vehicle will have detailed the right tyre pressure for that make and model for you to use as reference.
Your vehicle’s ideal tyre pressure will be noted down in the owner’s manual, and on a sticker located on or near the driver’s door frame. It will list the right pressure in PSI and bars – both units of pressure. You can simply pick the one that matches your tyre pressure gauge and inflation gear.
- Remove the valve dust cap
This is a small, usually black, thimble-shaped bit of plastic that covers the tyre valve to keep it clean. Put it somewhere safe, as you’ll want to put it back on once you’re satisfied with your tyre pressure.
- Take a reading with your tyre pressure gauge
Apply your gauge to the tyre valve stem, pressing evenly to be sure of an accurate reading. You’ll hear the hissing of air escaping stop when you’ve got the gauge in position correctly. Depending on the gauge you’re using, you may need to check the dial for a reading, or there may be a digital display.
- Remedy any problems
If your tyre pressure matches the ideal specified by your vehicle’s manufacturers, great. Move onto the next step. If not, you’ll need to either inflate or deflate the tyres to reach that target.
- If your tyre pressure is too low
Inflate your tyres in short increments, rechecking the tyre pressure in between. A hand or foot pump kept in the boot is ideal to be prepared for this scenario when on the road.
- If your tyre pressure is too high
Release small amounts of air from your tyres, again rechecking the tyre pressure frequently. You can use the tip of a flat-head screwdriver to gently press on the metal pin inside the valve stem – this will release air from the tyres.
- Put the valve dust cap back onto the valve and tighten it up
This is a crucial step to avoid dust or roadside debris getting into the tyres and causing problems. It also helps to prevent anything from pressing on the valve stem and deflating your tyres.
- Repeat the process for the rest of your tyres
Always remember to check every tyre on your vehicle, as one tyre being fine doesn’t guarantee the rest will be at the right pressure too. If your car has a spare tyre, remember to check that one as well – it’s a common one for people to overlook.
When should tyre pressure be checked?
You might think that it’s fine to go without checking your tyre pressure because you’ve had your car serviced in the last few months, but this is a flawed viewpoint. In reality, your tyre pressure should be checked every month and before any big journey.
Why so often? Well, all the weight of your vehicle rests upon those tyres, which naturally causes them to release air gradually over time. This doesn’t normally affect your driving, but if the pressure gets too low then it could have a big impact on handling and safety.
As mentioned above, it’s best to check your tyre pressure when the car has been stationary for several hours, so it’s ideal to do it before you go out for the first time that day. Doing so roughly once a month (it may be easier for you to aim for weekends so you have more time) will help to protect yourself and other road users, as well as saving money in the long run.
Not confident in checking your own tyre pressure? Don’t worry. You can always bring your car to your nearest Mr Clutch Autocentre and we’ll help you out.
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