Keeping your tires properly inflated is important for both your safety and the longevity of your tires. In this article, we’ll go over how to check your tire pressure in a few simple steps.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, you’ll need a few things:
- A tire pressure gauge
- A tire inflation tool (such as an air compressor or tire pump)
Step 1: Check Your Vehicle’s Recommended Tire Pressure
Before you check your tire pressure, it’s important to know what pressure your tires should be at. You can usually find this information in your vehicle’s owner manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.
FAQ: How do I know what my recommended tire pressure is?
Answer:
You can usually find this information in your vehicle’s owner manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.
Step 2: Check the Tire Pressure
Once you know what pressure your tires should be at, it’s time to check the actual pressure. Unscrew the valve cap from the tire valve and press the tire gauge onto the valve stem.
How to check your tire pressure:
- Remove the valve cap
- Press the tire gauge onto the valve stem
- Read the tire pressure on the gauge
FAQ: How do I know if my tire pressure is too low?
Answer:
If your tire pressure is too low, you may notice that your tires look flatter than usual or that your vehicle is not handling as well as it should. You may also notice that your tires are wearing unevenly.
FAQ: How do I know if my tire pressure is too high?
Answer:
If your tire pressure is too high, you may notice that your ride is bumpier than usual or that your tires are wearing out faster than they should. You may also notice that your vehicle is not handling as well as it should.
Step 3: Inflate or Deflate the Tires
If your tire pressure is too high or too low, you’ll need to adjust it. Use the tire inflation tool to add or release air from the tire until it reaches the recommended pressure.
FAQ: How often should I check my tire pressure?
Answer:
You should check your tire pressure at least once a month, and always before a long road trip.
FAQ: Can I check my tire pressure when the tires are hot?
Answer:
No, you should always check your tire pressure when the tires are cold (i.e. when the vehicle has been parked for at least a few hours).
Conclusion
Checking your tire pressure is a simple but important task that you should do regularly. By keeping your tires properly inflated, you can help ensure your safety on the road and prolong the life of your tires.