How to Check Your Tire Pressure

How to Check Your Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch) and refers to how much air is in your tires. Did you know that driving your car with even one tire that is underinflated by just 8 PSI can reduce the life of the tire by 9,000 miles and increase your fuel consumption by 4%?

In other words, having the right amount of pressure keeps tires working properly, increases their lifespan, and saves you money on gas. Here’s how to check.

Stuff You Need:

• Tire gauge: This is the wand-like instrument used to check tire pressure. They normally cost less than $10 and can be found at most gas stations.
• Four tires
• That's it!

Step 1) Find out what your tire pressure should be. The right tire pressure for your car is listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side car door, glove box, fuel door, or in the owner’s manual. The pressure isn’t listed on the tire itself – that’s the max pressure for carrying heavy loads like all your stuff when you head to college.

Step 2) Make sure your tires cool down. Then remove the tire valve cap. It’s best to check tire pressure at least three hours after you’ve last driven. Remove the valve cap from the valve stem, which is located on the hubcap of your tire.

Step 3) Press the round end of the tire gauge firmly onto the tire’s valve stem. See the graphic below for reference.

Step 4) Read the number! That number is the PSI (tire pressure). If the number matches your recommended PSI, you’re all good!

If the number on the gauge is lower than the recommended PSI, you need to inflate that tire.

If the number is too high, that means the tire is overinflated. Press down on the tire valve with your finger or the tip of a pen to let some air out. Once you release air, check your pressure again until you reach the proper PSI. Once you’re done, make sure you put the valve cap back on tightly!

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