ALT-1 How to Check your Tire Pressure
Tires need proper inflation to ensure safe vehicle handling and to maximize fuel economy. Furthermore, most tires naturally lose air pressure over time. For these reasons, you should check your tire pressure at least once a week.
Here is a simple guide on how to check your tire pressure.
1. First off, tire pressure in measured in psi (pounds per square inch) and to discover your current tire pressure, you will need a tire pressure gauge. There are many different types of tire pressure gauges. They range from the inexpensive stick kind with a pop-out indicator to the expensive dial kind with an air bleed feature. Generally, the more you spend, the more accurate the gauge will be and the longer it will last. Choosing one though is a matter of personal preference. You can purchase a tire pressure gauge at a gas station, an auto parts store, and even on the Internet.
2. Next, you will need to determine the recommended cold inflation pressure for your tires. What is "recommended cold inflation pressure"? It is the air pressure your tires should have when they are cold, meaning they have not been driven on for at least a few hours. Heat causes tire pressure to increase and accurate tire pressure readings cannot be obtained if your tires are hot from being used.
The recommended cold inflation pressure for your tires is supplied by your vehicle manufacturer. This information is usually listed on a label in the door jamb. This label is known as the tire information placard. You can also find the recommended cold inflation pressure in your owner's manual. You should not consult the sidewall of your tires for this information; the psi rating branded on tire sidewalls indicates maximum safe inflation pressure, not recommended cold inflation pressure.
3. Now locate your tire air valve. It is usually located on the outside edge of the tire rim. Through this valve, you can take tire pressure readings and inflate your tires. The valve is usually covered by a small plastic cap which is used to protect the valve from the elements. This cap screws on and off and you should remove it for the time being.
4. Measure your tire pressure by pressing down the valve end of the tire pressure gauge against the tire air valve. If you hear a hissing noise, this is an indication that the gauge is not properly seated and air is escaping. You will need to press it firmly against the tire air valve and hold it there. Once the gauge is properly seated, it should display an accurate reading. It is wise to verify the first reading of the tire pressure gauge by taking a second reading.
5. If your tire pressure is at the recommended cold inflation pressure, remove the gauge quickly to avoid letting air escape. Replace the plastic cap and you are done.
6. If your tire pressure is below the recommended cold inflation pressure, add air as needed. Then take another reading with the tire pressure gauge to verify proper tire inflation.
7. If your tire pressure is above the recommended cold inflation pressure, you should release air from the tire. You can accomplish this by pressing down the center of the tire air valve with your fingernail, a pen, or a key.
Some tire pressure gauges have an air bleed feature which can decrease tire pressure and give you a reading at the same time. You can use this feature to reach the correct inflation pressure easily. If your gauge does not have this feature, release air from the tire manually and take additional readings until you reach proper tire inflation.
Tires last longer and provide better load carrying capacity when they are properly inflated. Checking your tire pressure on a regular basis is vital vehicle maintenance that is often neglected. It only takes a minute to check your tire pressure. Doing so will save you money on gas and save you money on tires.
Thanks for reading!
