How to Check and Inflate Your Tyre Pressure Correctly

Tyre pressure is one of the simplest maintenance tasks you can do yourself, yet it's frequently neglected. Under-inflated tyres reduce fuel economy, wear unevenly, overheat under load, and significantly increase braking distances. Over-inflated tyres reduce grip and cause premature centre tread wear.

What Pressure Do My Tyres Need?

Your vehicle's recommended tyre pressures are in the owner's handbook and typically displayed on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb or fuel filler flap. Note that many vehicles specify different pressures for front and rear tyres, and a higher pressure when carrying a full load. Never use the 'maximum pressure' figure on the tyre sidewall — that is the maximum the tyre can safely hold, not the recommended operating pressure.

Step-by-Step: Checking Tyre Pressure

• Check pressures when the tyres are cold — driven less than 2 miles at low speed. Hot tyres give a falsely high reading
• Remove the valve cap from the tyre valve and store it safely
• Press your pressure gauge firmly onto the valve — you should get a clear reading without air escaping
• Compare the reading to your recommended pressure
• If too low, use an airline (at a petrol station) or home compressor to inflate
• If too high, use the pin in the centre of the valve to release air in short bursts and recheck
• Replace the valve cap

How Often Should You Check?

Monthly checks are ideal. Always check before a long motorway journey or when carrying a heavy load. Don't forget to check the spare tyre if your vehicle has one.

At PKA Automotive, we check and adjust tyre pressures as part of every service. If you're unsure about your tyres, pop in for a free vehicle health check.