How to Check the Tire Pressure on a Car – Why Correct Tire Pressure Matters?

Written By: Don Dodi
Fact Checked By: Kristen Brown
Reviewed By: Diego Rosenberg

Do you know that one in four vehicles on the road actually has a dangerously low tire pressure.

As incorrect tire pressure actually causes over 11,000 accidents each years, which is why it becomes really important to check and maintain your car’s tire pressure at the correct PSI.

As well as, according to the NHTSA shows that driving with underinflated tires which increases the risk of the tire-related crashes by 300%.

So, when you maintain your tire pressure properly then it literally helps your car handle in a lot better way, stops more quickly and uses less fuel as well: that saves your money at the pump and also prevent premature tire wear as well.

And even your tire pressure drop just 1 PSI below the recommended level then it can lower the fuel efficiency by up to 0.2% and that reduces the tire lifespan as well.

Because of that this guide specifically focus on How to Check the Tire Pressure on a Car, so that you can maintain the tire health in the correct way.

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Tools

Item	Why You Need It
Tire Pressure Gauge(Digital or Analog)	It’s time to check if your tires have the correct air pressure
Air Compressor(Gas Station or Portable)	This is to check if the pressure is too low so that you can add the rest.
Vehicle Owner’s Manual	It tells you the correct tire pressure for your vehicle
Door Placard(Driver’s Side Door Jamb)	This is the device that shows the recommended PSI for your tires
Valve Cap Remover (Optional)	This is actually optional, but it makes it easier if the caps are stuck or hard to turn

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When Should You Check Tire Pressure?

In fact, you should check your tire pressure at regular intervals as it is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your car safe, efficient and road-ready.

But knowing when to test is just as important as knowing how to test.

So, below are the important times when you should check your tire pressure, each explained in simple terms with useful facts:

1. Check Tire Pressure When Tires Are Cold

So, basically the best time to check your tire pressure is when the tires are “cold”, as this literally means the car has been sitting for at least 3 hours, or has been driven less than 2 kilometers (about 1 mile).

Why is that? Because driving warms up the tires, which temporarily increases the pressure and can give you an inaccurate reading.

Also, manufacturers recommend checking tire pressure in cold conditions to get accurate results.

NOTE: It is important to know that when tires get really hot the tire pressure can increase by 2 to 6 PSI, also depending on speed and road conditions.

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2. Check Tire Pressure Once a Month

Also, most experts, including the U.S. Department of Transportation and tire manufacturers, recommend checking your tire pressure at least once a month. Tires naturally lose air over time—on average, even without a leak, about 1-2 PSI per month.

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3. Check Before Long Road Trips

So always check your tire pressure before setting out on a long trip. Driving long distances with under-inflated tires can lead to excessive heat, poor fuel consumption, and an increased risk of tire blowout.

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4. Check Tire Pressure During Temperature Changes

Also, when the weather changes, especially during seasonal changes like from summer to winter – you should check your tire pressure more frequently.

Cold air causes the air molecules to shrink, which reduces the pressure inside your tires.

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5. After Any Tire Service or Repair

Also, if you’ve had your punctured tire repaired, had tires rotated, or replaced them, it’s important to recheck the air pressure. Changes in tire condition or sealing can affect air retention.

Read More:

• How to Change Engine Oil in a Car

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Just Locate the Recommended Tire Pressure

In fact, knowing the correct tire pressure for your car is essential for safe driving, good fuel economy and long-lasting tires. But don’t rely solely on the number printed on the tire—this is not the right place to find out about your car’s specific needs. Instead, you should go to:

1. Check the Driver’s Side Door Jamb Sticke

So basically one of the easiest places to find the recommended tire pressure is on a sticker located on the inside of the driver’s side door frame, also known as the door jamb.

And all you have to do is open the driver’s door and look on the side or near the latch. This sticker is placed there by the vehicle manufacturer and clearly states the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) for the front and rear tires, and sometimes the spare tire as well.

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2. Look in the Vehicle Owner’s Manual

Now, if you notice that the door sticker is missing, unreadable, or you just want to double-check, the owner’s manual is your next best source.

And usually found in the glove box, the manual will tell you how many PSI your tires should be inflated to under normal driving conditions. Look in sections like “Tires,” “Vehicle Specifications,” or “Maintenance.”

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3. Don’t Use the Tire Sidewall Number

Yes, this is a common mistake that many drivers make. The number you see on the side of the tire is not the recommended tire pressure: This is the maximum pressure the tire can safely handle when fully loaded. This value is determined by the tire manufacturer, not the manufacturer of your car.

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How to Check the Tire Pressure on a Car (Step-By-Step)

Checking your tire pressure takes just a few minutes and can save you from big problems like a punctured tire, reduced mileage or even accidents. Follow these five easy steps to make sure your tires are properly inflated and ready to hit the road.

1. Remove the Valve Cap

Yes, in fact, every tire’s air valve has a small cap attached to it, which is usually located on the edge of the wheel (rim). This cap protects the valve from dust, dirt and moisture.

So to get started, just remove the lid by turning it counterclockwise. Put it in a safe place like your pocket or cup holder—you’ll need to put it back on after you’re done checking.

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2. Press the Gauge onto the Valve Stem

Simply take your tire pressure gauge—whether digital or analog (manual)—and press its nozzle firmly onto the tire’s air valve. You should hear a loud hiss; this is normal.

Plus, you must ensure that the gauge is seated evenly and tightly on the valve to get an accurate reading. If it is loose or crooked, the reading may be inaccurate or air may escape.

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3. Read the Tire Pressure

And after you place the gauge on the valve, your gauge will display the PSI (pounds per square inch) reading – the amount of air pressure in the tire.

Now, you’ll need to compare this number to the recommended PSI listed in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or driver-side door sticker. Most passenger cars require 30-35 PSI, but this varies by vehicle.

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4. Adjust the Pressure If Needed

• If you think the tire pressure is too low: Use an air compressor (available at a petrol pump or a portable compressor) to add air. Press the hose nozzle firmly onto the valve and inflate it in small increments.
• And if the tire pressure is too high: Press the valve with a small tool (such as the back of a gauge or the tip of a key) to slowly release air.

After adjustment, always re-use the gauge to double-check the pressure.

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5. Replace the Valve Cap

So, once you see that the tire has the correct pressure, don’t forget to put the valve cap back on.

In fact it keeps the valve clean and protected from air leakage caused by dirt or debris.

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Tips for Accurate Tire Pressure Checks

1. Always Check Tire Pressure When Tires Are Cold

Yes, it is important because tire pressure should be checked when the tires are “cold”, which means the car has not been driven for at least 3 hours, or driven less than 2 km (1 mile).

This is really important because while driving, the friction between the tires and the road generates heat, which increases the pressure inside the tire. This increase in pressure is temporary and can give you a false reading.

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2. Check All Four Tires – And the Spare Tire Too

So, when you check tire pressure, don’t stop at just one or two tires – every tire on your car should be checked, including the spare tire (if your car has a spare tire).

Spare tires are often forgotten if you think a single tire problem can affect your vehicle’s balance, steering and braking, but in an emergency, a flat spare tire won’t help you.

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3. Use a Reliable, High-Quality Tire Pressure Gauge

Plus, you should also be aware of the fact that not all gauges give accurate readings. Cheap or old gauges may break down or become less reliable over time.

And for best results, use a well-made digital or analog gauge. Digital gauges are typically easier to read, while analog gauges are often more durable.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Checking Tire Pressure

And while checking tire pressure is a pretty quick and simple task, many drivers unknowingly make small mistakes that can lead to big problems – like poor fuel mileage, uneven tire wear, or even dangerous blowouts. Here are the most common errors to look out for, explained in simple and useful terms.

1. Using the Tire Sidewall Max PSI Instead of the Recommended PSI

This is literally one of the most common mistakes, looking at the number printed on the side of the tire and thinking that is the correct pressure for your vehicle.

But you should keep in mind that this number is the maximum pressure the tire can safely handle when carrying a full load – it’s not the recommended pressure for your specific car.

When you drive with maximum PSI it results in harsh ride, reduced traction and also causes the center of the tire to wear out faster, so you should keep it slightly below the maximum limit.

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2. Not Checking Tire Pressure Regularly

Another big mistake is waiting too long between tire pressure checks. Tires lose air over time—about 1 to 2 PSI per month, even if there are no leaks.

So, if you don’t perform monthly checks, your tires can easily become under-inflated without you even noticing, leading to poor handling, higher fuel consumption and more wear.

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3. Ignoring Tire Pressure After Seasonal Temperature Drops

Also, the air pressure in tires changes with the weather. When the outside temperature drops, the air inside your tires contracts, causing a drop in PSI.

And this is particularly common during autumn and winter when cold weather causes tires to lose air – even if they were perfect just a few weeks ago.

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4. Failing to Recheck After Adding or Releasing Air

That’s why sometimes people overinflate or overinflate a tire and assume everything is okay without double-checking. But without double-checking with a pressure gauge, you won’t know if you’ve reached the correct PSI.

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Tools You Can Use to Check and Maintain Tire Pressure

When you have the right kind of tools it can really make checking and maintaining your tire pressure faster, easier and more accurate. Whether you are a beginner or perform regular vehicle maintenance, the tools listed below can help you stay safe, save fuel and extend the life of your tires.

1. Best Digital and Analog Tire Pressure Gauges

In fact, a tire pressure gauge is the most important tool for knowing how much air is in your tires. There are two main types: digital and analog (manual).

• Digital gauges have an electronic display that shows the exact PSI (pounds per square inch) number. These are much easier to read, especially in low light, and are great for beginners.
• Analog gauges use a dial or sliding stick to display pressure readings. They do not require batteries and are generally more durable.

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2. Portable Air Compressors for Home Use

A portable air compressor is a small electric device that can inflate your tires at home or on the go. It can be plugged into your car’s 12V power outlet (cigarette lighter) or a standard wall socket, depending on your car model.

These are especially useful if:

• You don’t want to rely on gas stations
• You live in an area with cold climates
• You check your tire pressure regularly

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3. TPMS – Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Yes, most modern cars come equipped with TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), which alerts you on the dashboard if the air pressure in one or more tires is significantly low.

There are two types of TPMS:

• Direct TPMS: Uses sensors inside each tire to send real-time pressure data.
• Indirect TPMS: Uses the car’s ABS wheel speed sensors to detect changes in tire pressure based on rotational speed.

Not only that, but NHTSA surveys show that direct TPMS can reduce severe underinflation by up to 25% in 55.6% of cases, making it really useful and a great thing to use.

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Why Tire Pressure Matters

So, tire pressure is not just a game of numbers but it directly affects your safety, fuel economy, tire life and even the environment. Driving with the right tire pressure makes your car perform better and also saves you money in the long run.

1. Safety: Better Braking, Control, and Handling

Proper tire pressure helps your tires maintain the best contact with the road. When tires are properly inflated, your car responds better when turning, stopping, or driving over wet or uneven surfaces.

• Underinflated tires can cause the car to feel “sluggish” or unstable and take longer to stop.
• Over-inflated tires can lead to reduced grip and a harsh or bouncy ride.

Additionally, NTSB special investigations found that there were approximately 33,000 tire-related accidents a year, with 539 deaths and 19,000 injuries, caused by poor maintenance and tire separation.[¹]

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2. Fuel Efficiency: Lower Rolling Resistance = Better Mileage

Plus, it also happens that properly inflated tires rotate more easily, meaning the engine doesn’t have to work as hard. This reduces rolling resistance, which helps your car use less fuel.

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3. Tire Longevity: Even Wear and Fewer Blowouts

So, when your tires have the correct pressure, they wear more evenly. This makes them last longer and reduces the risk of a dangerous blowout.

• Low tire pressure causes excess wear on the outer edges of the tire.
• High pressure causes faster wear in the center of the tread.

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Conclusion: How to Check the Tire Pressure on a Car

In fact the air in your tires may be invisible, but its effect is really evident, because if the correct pressure is maintained it really does help your car to respond much better, and your vehicle has better grip and an overall better ride.

So, basically it ranges from better fuel efficiency to smoother handling and longer tire life, maintaining the correct tire pressure benefits you in a number of ways – every time you hit the road.

After all, you shouldn’t have to wait for a warning light or a roadside emergency. Make checking tire pressure part of your car’s routine care. It’s a small step that yields big results: a comfortable ride, safe handling, better mileage and peace of mind.

For further queries and unresolved questions you can reach us through the comment section below.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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References:

[1] NTSB. Passenger Vehicle Tire Safety: Special Investigation Report NTSB/SIR-15/02.
https://www.ntsb.gov/safety/safety-studies/Documents/SIR1502.pdf