Not sure how to check your car tyre pressure?
We hear this a lot! So many people feel unsure or a bit nervous about checking the air pressure in their tyres. Especially if they’ve never done it before and don’t have someone to show them how.
But once you know what to do, it’s actually really straightforward. It only takes a few minutes and can save you a fair bit of grief later.
This guide will walk you through how to check your tyre pressure and top up the air, whether you’re doing it on your driveway, on the street outside your house, or at the petrol station.
Why correct car tyre pressure matters
We’ve got a full blog post about the basics of car maintenance and why tyre pressure is important, so we won’t go into too much detail here.
But to keep it simple, the wrong tyre pressure means trouble. Your tyres won’t grip properly, they’ll wear unevenly, you’ll burn more fuel, and worst of all, you could risk a blowout. It’s worth getting right.
What you’ll need
- A pump of some kind (see the options below).
- Your car’s recommended tyre pressure (usually found on a sticker inside the front passenger or driver’s door, on the fuel flap, or in your trusty motor manual).
- A tyre pressure gauge if your pump doesn’t include one.
The best time to check is when your tyres are cold. If you’ve been driving for a while, the air inside heats up and can give you a false reading.
How to check your car tyre pressure
1. Park somewhere level and safe
Stick the handbrake on and switch off the engine. Remember, don’t drive for too long before you do your checks. The tyres should be cold, not warm after a long drive.
2. Find the correct pressure
Look for the sticker inside the passenger or driver’s door, or check in your car’s manual. There might be two different numbers depending on how much weight the car is carrying.
3. Remove the dust cap from the tyre valve
Keep it safe! They’re small and easy to lose. The number of times I’ve lost a dust cap by kicking it under the car or down a grate by mistake…
4. Attach your gauge or pump nozzle to the valve
You might hear a bit of air hissing. That’s normal and you’re not completely deflating your tyres. Just hold it steady until the reading shows.
5. Check the reading
Check the number against the guideline for your vehicle at the weight load you’ll be driving with. If the pressure is too low, top it up. If it’s too high, let a little out. Simple as that.
6. Repeat for all four tyres (and the spare if you’ve got one)
This may sound like stating the obvious, but if you’re checking the pressure because think one tyre is slightly deflated, you might not bother with the others. But for the sake of a few extra minutes, why not check the rest while you’re at it. It’s a good habit to get into!
7. Put the dust caps back on
Replace the dust caps you’ve put in a safe place so you don’t lose them… And job done. Award yourself the Responsible Car Owner badge.
What kind of pump should you use to top up the air in your tyres?
There are a few different options, depending on what you’ve got at home or how often you want to check your tyres (we recommend checking your car tyre pressure monthly).
The trusty manual foot pump
A manual foot pump is good if you’re just topping up now and then. Full disclosure, it does require a bit of effort and you’ll get a workout if the tyre is really deflated.
Pros: Cheap, simple, and mechanical. This kit doesn’t need power which can be a distint benefit.
Cons: Hard work if all four tyres are low, not ideal if you’ve got mobility issues.
12V plug-in pump
This is a bit of kit that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter or 12V socket and is really useful item to have in your car if you’re not keen on the petrol station air pumps.
Pros: Easy to use, portable, reliable.
Cons: Can be noisy and some budget versions take a while so pack some patience.
Battery-powered inflator
These are brilliant and really handy for regular top-ups or if you don’t want to get tangled up in wires.
Pros: Fast, cordless, convenient.
Cons: Needs regular charging to be really useful and can cost a bit more up front.
Petrol station air pump
If you’re filling up, why not check your car tyre pressure at the same time. This petrol station air pump is a great option if you’re already out and about and have 5 mins to spare.
Pros: Quick, accurate digital display, set-and-go.
Cons: Often costs 50p or more and not all of them take card payments. The machines can be a bit battered or confusing, especially if they’re not maintained. You’re also on a timer which can be quite stressful. Pro tip: remove the dust caps (and put them somewhere safe!) before you pay.
Still feeling a bit hesitant and need a demo?
If you’re still not sure about checking your car’s tyre pressure, or just want to see it done first, pop in and we’ll show you. One of our mechanics can walk you through it and make sure you’re confident. No pressure, no judgement.
If you’ve got a long trip coming up, ask about our road trip checks. We’ll give your tyres, fluids, lights and other bits a proper once-over so you’re ready for the miles ahead.
Get in touch using our contact form or give us a call on 0116 3190 118 or 07850 881 911. Or drop in to our friendly garage on Shaftsbury Road, Leicester, LE3 0QN. We’re always happy to help.
