How To Check Tyre Pressure At Home & Petrol Station

How To Check Tyre Pressure At Home:

Before starting you will need some items. First a tyre pressure gauge to test the current pressure. For those worried about how to use a tyre pressure gauge, they are simple machines. A connector at one end of the gauge can be connected to the valve of a tyre. This once tightened to the valve allows the gauge to read the current air pressure.

Digital gauges are easier to use, with the number appearing on a digital screen. However, analogue gauges are also accurate and generally cheaper.

You will also need a pump or air compressor capable of inflating the tyre if required.

Once you have these items, check your tyres with the following steps:

1. Find out the recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle. This information can be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb.

2. Ensure that the tyres are cold (not driven for at least three hours) before checking the pressure.

3. Remove the valve cap from the tyre and place it somewhere safe. Press the tyre pressure gauge onto the valve stem.

4. Read the tyre pressure gauge and compare it with the recommended tyre pressure. If the pressure is too low, add air using a tyre pump until it reaches the recommended level. If it is too high, release air from the valve stem using the gauge or by pressing the valve with a small object (i.e. Philips head screwdriver).

5. Recheck the tyre pressure once you have adjusted it to ensure it meets the recommended level.

6. Put the valve cap back onto the valve.

7. Repeat this for the rest of your tyres.

8. Update your tyre pressure sensors in your vehicle.

How To Check Tyre Pressure At Petrol Station:

Most petrol stations have a machine within their forecourt which you can use to check your tyre pressure.

1. Park your vehicle close enough to the air compressor at the petrol station so that you can reach all the tyres with the air hose.

2. Before putting your money in the machine, remove all the valve caps and keep them safe. This will save you time once the machine is running.

3. Enter your required pressure reading into the machine put in the correct amount of money.

4. Press the air hose onto the valve stem and hold it firmly in place.

5. Check the tyre pressure gauge on the air compressor to read the current tyre pressure.

6. Most modern machines will read the pressure and adjust as required – whether that is adding air or removing air – with no input from the user.

7. Recheck the tyre pressure once you have adjusted it to ensure it meets the recommended level.

8. Replace all the valve caps.

9. Update your tyre pressure sensors in your vehicle.