Maintaining the proper tire pressure in your vehicle is important for many reasons, from better mileage to increased safety. Plus, it will ensure a longer lifespan for your tires. No one wants to have to replace their tires, at great expense, sooner than they have to. It’s a good idea to check your tire pressure at least once a month.
Today’s modern vehicles will display the tire pressure for all four tires on the dashboard. This helps immensely. Just be sure to check it every once in a while. Here’s how you can check your tire pressure quickly and effectively.
Considerations
Here are a couple of main considerations to keep in mind when checking your tire pressure.
- Tire Gauge – You can perform tire pressure checks yourself at home or you can take it to a local service station. If you do it on your own, you will need a standard air pressure gauge; pick up a digital one for the best accuracy and ease of use. The Department of Motor Vehicles recommends checking your pressure when the tires are cold and the car hasn’t been driven for a few hours.
- Recommended PSI – You should know the recommended air pressure for your vehicle and tire brand. This will serve as a guide for the normal tire pressure. You’ll find this number on the inside of the driver’s side door or in the vehicle owner’s manual. PSI stands for pounds per square inch.
Take it Step-by-Step
Here are the step-by-step instructions you should follow when checking your tire pressure:
- Twist off the cap from the valve stem, which is on the inside of the wheel.
- Place the tire pressure gauge into the valve stem, pressing down firmly to prevent the escape of air.
- Check the reading once you get a firm seal.
- Compare the reading to the tires’ recommended PSI.
- You will need to release the air if the reading is above the recommended PSI. Lightly push in the center of the valve stem via the pin. Air will be able to escape and lower the PSI. Do this in two- to three-second increments to make sure you don’t let out too much at once.
- You will need to add air if the tire pressure is below the recommendation. You will need an air compressor for this, so if you don’t have one at home, head to a service station or tire shop.
- Replace the valve caps after adding or removing air. These caps are designed to protect the valve stem from dirt and grime.
- Visually inspect each tire for tread wear, any foreign objects, deep cuts or large bumps on the sides.
A Note About Nitrogen
Some people use nitrogen to fill their tires rather than standard air. There are a few benefits to this, such as improved fuel mileage, less wear and tear on tires, and longer tire life span. Nitrogen leads to a more consistent and constant tire pressure because this gas is less likely to seep through tire walls.
Contact I&I Tires
If your tires can’t seem to hold their pressure and you need new ones, browse our shop of new tires online today or schedule a convenient appointment online.