Tire pressure is an important aspect of car maintenance. Keeping your tires at the recommended pressure will ensure better gas mileage, a smoother ride, a longer tire lifespan and less chance of tire failure.
Check the air pressure in your tires when they are cool. Warm or hot tires typically have higher pressure.
Start with one tire. Remove the valve stem cap by turning it counterclockwise. Place the valve stem cap in a safe place until you need to put it back on.
Pick up a tire pressure gauge at the local automotive supply store. Most air fill stations have them built into the handle. Insert the gauge firmly onto the valve stem until the meter pops out. This indicates the pressure. If you hear air flowing during this process, the gauge is not reading properly. Check to make sure that you are holding the gauge straight and applying enough pressure.
The indicator on the gauge shows how much pressure is in each tire. Check how much pressure is recommended for the tire by looking on the actual tire, inside the door jamb or in the owner's manual. Most tires have a pressure range of 30 to 40 psi (pounds per square inch).
Check all of your tires and fill accordingly. If you are using a pay per fill station, remove all valve stem caps and check the pressure level in each tire before starting the meter.
Check and inflate your spare tire often. Motorists are frequently stranded with flat spare tires.
If you over-inflate a tire, push the air release pin in the center of the valve stem with a pen or sharp object to relieve some pressure. If you live in an area with frequent temperature fluctuations, check tire pressure often as temperature changes can increase/decrease pressure.
