Wondering how to check air pressure in tires? Follow these steps to ensure your tires are ready to go.
Time 10 minutes
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$0 to $10
Introduction
Find out how to check tire pressure and maintain your vehicle's tires with this straightforward step-by-step guide.
Improperly inflated tires, whether too much or too little, can lead to serious safety hazards, including sudden blowouts, poor steering, and difficulties in controlling your vehicle. Checking tire pressure and correcting it is a quick task that only requires two tools: a tire pressure gauge and an air compressor or tire inflator. Most gas stations have air compressors, so you really only need to own one tool. For the most accurate reading, park your car for three to four hours before checking the air pressure with a gauge. If you drive to a gas station to use an air compressor, try to find one close by.
What should your tire pressure be?
Tire pressure requirements for cars generally range around 30-35 PSI (pounds per square inch). In many cases, the front tires may need a different air pressure than the rear tires. The quickest way to find the recommended tire pressure is to check the sticker located on the door jamb of the driver’s door. If you don’t see the recommended PSI sticker on your door jamb, check your owner’s manual. A common mistake is using the maximum PSI listed on the tire sidewall instead of the one recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
Tire pressure in winter vs. summer
Tire pressure is affected by fluctuating outdoor temperatures, which is why it’s important to check for ideal tire pressure regularly. During the winter months, you might notice that your tire pressure drops unexpectedly after the first freeze. This is because tires lose tire pressure in cold weather, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself inflating your tires more often. On the other hand, in the summer, when the temperature rises, the air inside the tires expands.
Tools Required
- Air compressor / tire inflator
- Needle nosed pliers / screwdriver
- Tire pressure gauge
Watch How To Check Tire Pressure and Adjust It for the Season
Project step-by-step (8)
Step 1
Determine the recommended PSI
The car door jamb on the driver’s side usually contains a sticker indicating the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) for the tires. Most manufacturers suggest a PSI range of 30 to 32 PSI for all four tires, although some vehicles may have different recommendations for the front and rear tires. If you cannot find the recommended PSI on your door jamb, be sure to check your owner’s manual.
Step 2
Remove the tire valve cap
Remove the tire valve cap from the tire air valve and store it somewhere safe to prevent dirt or debris from getting inside.
Step 3
Check tire pressure
Different types of tire pressure gauges are available. Our digital gauge displays the tire’s air pressure on a screen when it is pressed against the valve. On more common tire pressure pencil gauges this reading is taken when a small bar with numbered notches extends from the end of the gauge, displaying the tire pressure reading. It is imperative that the number bar is pushed all the way into the gauge before pressing it onto the air valve to ensure accurate readings.
To use the tire pressure gauge, press it straight onto the tire air valve and apply firm pressure. This will create a tight seal around the valve, preventing additional air leakage. If air is escaping, you will hear a hissing sound.
Step 4
Inflate the tire
To inflate the tire, press the air compressor nozzle firmly and directly onto the tire’s air valve, just as you would with the gauge, to create a tight seal. Hold the nozzle in place for approximately 30 seconds to one minute, depending on how low the initial pressure reading is. After that, check the tire pressure again and add or release air as necessary to reach the recommended PSI. Once you’ve achieved the correct pressure, screw the tire valve cap back on.
Step 5
Deflate the tire
You can deflate the tires as needed to adjust the tire pressure to the ideal level. Use a pointy object, like the tip of a screwdriver or a pair of needle-nose pliers, to press down the pin in the center of the tire valve stem. Pressing the pin will release air from the tire. To stop the air from being released, simply stop applying pressure to the pin.
Step 6
Check tire pressure in the remaining tires
Check the tire pressure for each of your remaining tires and inflate or deflate them as needed to reach the ideal pressure.
Step 7
Reset the tire pressure sensor
Every car has a unique method for resetting the tire pressure sensor. Some older vehicles have manual buttons that must be pressed for three seconds near the dash, while others require you to drive for ten minutes over 20 MPH for the car to automatically reset the sensor. In some newer cars, a digital reset button may be present to reset the pressure sensor. To find the specific procedure for your vehicle, look in your car owner’s manual.
Step 8
FAQ
How do I know if my tires need more air?
Check the tire pressure with a gauge, especially if your tires look flat or are bulging at the bottom. Other signs of low tire pressure include handling issues, such as the vehicle pulling to one side or swaying during turns. Additionally, if your car consumes gas more quickly than usual or takes longer to brake, this could also be due to low tire pressure.
Why do my tires keep losing pressure?
Several factors can cause tires to lose pressure, including punctures from nails or sharp objects, changes in temperature, damaged wheels, and impacts with potholes or curbs.
Is it better to over-inflate or under-inflate tires?
Neither option is ideal, as over inflation or under inflation can cause uneven tire wear. It is recommended to maintain tires at their required psi level.
