Tyre Pressure Too High: Dangers, Symptoms & How to Fix
While low pressure gets most attention, over-inflated tyres are equally dangerous. Here's what you need to know about high tyre pressure and how to fix it safely.
Safety Warning
Tyres inflated significantly above the manufacturer's recommendation reduce grip, increase blowout risk, and cause dangerous handling characteristics. Never exceed the maximum pressure listed on the tyre sidewall.
Why High Pressure is Dangerous
1. Reduced Traction & Grip
Over-inflated tyres have a smaller contact patch with the road. The center of the tyre bulges outward, reducing the amount of rubber touching the surface.
- • Wet weather danger: Significantly increased risk of aquaplaning
- • Longer braking distances: Less grip means slower stopping
- • Poor cornering: Reduced stability in turns and emergency maneuvers
2. Increased Blowout Risk
Excessive pressure puts extreme stress on the tyre structure, especially at high speeds or in hot weather.
- • Heat buildup: Over-inflated tyres generate more heat during driving
- • Structural failure: Can cause sudden catastrophic failure
- • Sidewall stress: Increased pressure weakens sidewall integrity
3. Premature & Uneven Tyre Wear
The center of an over-inflated tyre wears much faster than the edges, leading to premature replacement.
- • Center wear pattern: Distinctive strip down the middle of the tread
- • Shorter lifespan: Tyres may need replacing 20-30% earlier
- • Costly replacement: Premature wear wastes money unnecessarily
4. Harsh & Uncomfortable Ride
Over-inflated tyres are less able to absorb road imperfections, making every bump and pothole more noticeable.
- • Reduced comfort: Stiffer ride quality
- • More road noise: Increased vibration and sound
- • Suspension stress: Extra load on suspension components
How to Tell if Your Tyres are Over-Inflated
- •Pressure gauge reading: Check with a gauge - if it's significantly above the recommended pressure, it's too high
- •Visual inspection: Tyre appears bulged in the center, less contact with road at edges
- •Harsh ride: Car feels bouncy or jittery, especially over bumps
- •Reduced grip: Noticeable loss of traction, especially in wet conditions
- •Center wear pattern: Tread shows excessive wear in the middle
How to Reduce Tyre Pressure Safely
- 1Check current pressure using a reliable gauge when tyres are cold
- 2Find recommended pressure on your door jamb sticker or owner's manual
- 3Remove valve cap and press the center pin of the valve stem with a small tool (screwdriver, key, or gauge)
- 4Release air slowly in short bursts, checking pressure frequently
- 5Stop when correct - aim for the recommended pressure, not below it
- 6Replace valve cap and repeat for all four tyres
Tip: If you accidentally release too much air, use a compressor to add air back. Always check pressure when tyres are cold for accuracy.
Why Tyres Become Over-Inflated
- •Hot weather inflation: Air expands when hot - tyres inflated in summer heat will be over-inflated when cold
- •Over-enthusiastic topping up: Adding air without checking current pressure first
- •Faulty gauge: Using an inaccurate pressure gauge at petrol stations
- •Misreading recommendations: Confusing maximum pressure (on tyre) with recommended pressure (on door sticker)
- •Automatic inflators: Some garage equipment may over-inflate if not monitored
When to Visit a Garage
- •Pressure exceeds maximum: If your tyres are above the maximum PSI listed on the sidewall, have them checked professionally
- •Visible damage: Bulges, cracks, or sidewall damage require immediate professional inspection
- •Persistent over-inflation: If tyres keep becoming over-inflated, there may be a valve or system issue
- •Uneven wear pattern: Severe center wear may indicate the tyre has been over-inflated for extended periods
- •TPMS issues: If your tyre pressure monitoring system isn't working correctly, have it diagnosed
Prevention Tips
- Always check pressure when tyres are cold (before driving or after 3+ hours parked)
- Use the recommended pressure from your door sticker, not the maximum on the tyre
- Check pressure before adding air to avoid over-inflation
- Use a reliable gauge - calibrate or replace if readings seem inconsistent
- Monitor pressure monthly to catch issues before they become problems
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Tyre pressures shown on this site are general guides only. Exact pressures depend on your tyre size, load, speed rating and market. Always confirm your pressures using the sticker inside your car's door, your fuel flap or your official owner's manual before driving.