HOW TO CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

Maintaining tire pressure is important for all vehicles. Over-inflated tires can be damaged more easily by potholes or debris and can affect the ride of the vehicle. Under-inflated tires reduce tire life, reduce fuel economy, create less steering precision and cornering stability. Follow the below steps to ensure your tire pressure is correct.

STEP 1: GATHER EQUIPMENT

Collect the following equipment to measure tire pressure: a digital or dial tire pressure gauge and an air compressor/personal air pump or a gas station air hose.

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STEP 2: PARK IN A SAFE LOCATION

Park in a safe place where you can safely measure and adjust tire pressure away from moving traffic and on a level parking surface.

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STEP 3: CHECK FOR RECOMMENDED TIRE PRESSURE

Before you begin filling up your tires check for your automobile manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure. The recommended tire pressure can usually be found on a factory certification sticker placed on the driver’s door, in the vehicle owner’s manual or in the tire manufacturers owner’s manual.

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STEP 4: LOCATE THE TIRE'S VALVE STEM

To fill up tires to an accurate air pressure to wait a minimum of 30 to 40 minutes after driving. Locate the tire’s valve stem and unscrew the protective cap to expose the valve tip. Place the cap in a safe place, so you can retrieve it again to reseal the valve.

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STEP 5: CHECK TIRE PRESSURE

Firmly apply the tire gauge to the tire valve stem tip to measure the tire’s air pressure. The highest pressure shown is the current air pressure. Compare this reading to the factory recommendation. If over-inflated, you can release air by depressing the valve inside the valve system. If under-inflated, add air by placing the end of an air pump over the tire valve. Only fill the tire for 4 to 5 seconds before rechecking the tire pressure.