Tyre Pressure FAQ

To check your tyre pressure: 1) Remove the valve cap from the tyre. 2) Press a tyre pressure gauge firmly onto the valve. 3) Read the pressure displayed. 4) Compare with your vehicle's recommended pressure (found in the door jamb or owner's manual). 5) Add or release air as needed. Always check when tyres are cold for accurate readings.

The correct tyre pressure varies by vehicle. Check your car's door jamb sticker, fuel filler cap, or owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended PSI. Typical pressures range from 30-35 PSI for passenger cars. Never use the maximum pressure shown on the tyre sidewall - this is the tyre's limit, not your car's recommendation.

Always check tyre pressure when tyres are cold - before driving or after the car has been stationary for at least 3 hours. Driving heats up tyres and increases pressure by 2-4 PSI, giving inaccurate readings. If you must check hot tyres, add 2-4 PSI to the recommended pressure.

Low tyre pressure causes: increased fuel consumption (up to 3% per PSI under-inflated), uneven tyre wear, poor handling and braking, increased risk of tyre failure, and higher running temperatures. Check and inflate tyres to the correct pressure immediately if they're low.

Over-inflated tyres cause: reduced contact with the road, harsh ride quality, uneven wear (center of tread wears faster), increased risk of damage from potholes, and reduced traction in wet conditions. Release air to reach the recommended pressure.

Check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before long journeys. Tyres naturally lose 1-2 PSI per month through normal permeation. Regular checks ensure optimal safety, fuel efficiency, and tyre life. Many modern cars have TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems) that alert you to significant pressure loss.

The TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) warning light indicates one or more tyres are significantly under-inflated (typically 25% or more below recommended pressure). Check all tyre pressures immediately and inflate to the correct PSI. The light should turn off after driving a short distance with correct pressures.

No, maintain the manufacturer's recommended pressure year-round. However, be aware that tyre pressure drops about 1 PSI for every 10°F (5.5°C) temperature decrease. Check pressures more frequently in winter as cold weather causes pressure to drop. Inflate to the recommended PSI when tyres are cold.

Yes, many vehicles require different pressures for front and rear tyres due to weight distribution. Always check your vehicle's specific recommendations on the door jamb sticker or owner's manual. Front tyres often need slightly higher pressure than rear tyres, but this varies by vehicle.

Yes, most vehicles recommend higher tyre pressure when fully loaded or towing. Check your door jamb sticker or owner's manual for 'full load' or 'maximum load' pressure recommendations. This is typically 3-5 PSI higher than normal pressure. Return to normal pressure when not carrying heavy loads.

Yes, nitrogen is safe and offers minor benefits: slower pressure loss, less moisture inside tyres, and more stable pressure with temperature changes. However, regular air (78% nitrogen) works perfectly fine for most drivers. The key is maintaining correct pressure, regardless of whether you use air or nitrogen.

Tyres naturally lose 1-2 PSI per month through permeation - air molecules slowly escape through the rubber. This is normal. Faster pressure loss may indicate: a puncture, damaged valve, bead leak, or rim damage. If a tyre loses pressure quickly, have it inspected by a professional.