How to Check Tire Pressure

Keeping your vehicle’s tires properly inflated not only helps you stay safe on the road but also provides a variety of performance benefits. From maximizing the life of your tires to boosting fuel economy and your ride’s handling, supplying your tires with the right amount of air allows your vehicle to perform at its best. Fortunately, checking and keeping your tires properly inflated is easy with these tips from our used car dealer in Akron.

Measure Cold Tires If Possible

“Valve Cap Air” licensed under Pixabay by Hans

You’ll need a tire pressure gauge, air compressor, and pen and paper to get started. To check your tires, first, ensure that they’re cold. The tires will warm up as you drive due to friction and heat generated from the road, resulting in a natural increase in temperature and air pressure. For the most accurate and consistent reading, make sure to measure your tire pressure first thing in the morning before you drive or after your car has been parked for a few hours.

Locate the Recommended Tire Pressure for Your Vehicle

Every vehicle has a recommended tire pressure that will deliver the best gas mileage, handling, and tire life for that car. Newer models tend to have this information located on a placard on the driver-side door jam, but you can always find this information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual as well. The numbers listed are recommendations from your vehicle’s manufacturer and represent the correct tire pressure measured when your tires are cold. Take note if your front and rear tires require different pressure levels.

Check and Fill to the Recommended Levels

To accurately measure the air pressure in your tire, remove the valve cap and press the pressure gauge down hard enough to get a reading. On standard gauges, the air pressure will push a small bar out from the bottom of the gauge until it reaches a measurement unit etched on the side, while digital gauges will show the reading on a screen.

Compare the current air pressure to your vehicle’s recommended levels and adjust accordingly by adding more air with an air compressor or releasing air until you reach the desired level. Remember to recheck your tires with the pressure gauge after filling to ensure your tires are properly inflated. If you need assistance properly checking your tire pressure or need help filling your tires, feel free to bring your vehicle to our Akron used car dealer for professional tire service.

Schedule Car Service at North Coast Mitsubishi of Akron

Having the correct air pressure in your vehicle’s tires is crucial to ensure a safe, efficient, and comfortable ride. If you notice your tires underperforming or experience any signs that may hint at needing your tires checked, leave it to the professionals at North Coast Mitsubishi of Akron Service Center. Schedule service online today!