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Tyres > Help > Tyres Help > How To Check Vehicle Tyre Pressure
Checking and maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential for safety, handling, fuel efficiency, and tyre lifespan. This guide explains how to check tyre pressure, how to inflate or deflate tyres, and when to check them for the most accurate results.
You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before any long journey.
Tyre pressure naturally drops over time. Driving with incorrect pressure can lead to poor handling, longer braking distances, increased tyre wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and a higher risk of a blowout.
Always check tyre pressure when your tyres are cold. Ideally, this means the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours, or driven less than 1 mile at low speed.
Heat from driving increases tyre pressure and can give an inaccurate reading.
Your recommended tyre pressure can usually be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or in your vehicle handbook.
The label will normally show:
The basic process is the same for cars, vans, caravans, and motorbikes:
1. Remove the valve cap
2. Attach a tyre pressure gauge to the valve
3. Read the current pressure
4. Compare it to the recommended level
5. Adjust if needed by inflating or deflating the tyre
6. Replace the valve cap
Repeat this process for all tyres, including the spare where applicable.
You will need a tyre pressure gauge, which can be digital, dial, or stick type.
1. Make sure the tyres are cold
2. Remove the valve cap
3. Press the gauge firmly onto the valve
4. Read the pressure
5. Inflate or deflate as needed
6. Recheck the pressure and refit the valve cap
Most petrol stations have an air machine you can use to check and adjust tyre pressure.
1. Park close enough to the air compressor
2. Remove the valve caps from all tyres
3. Enter the recommended pressure into the machine
4. Attach the hose to each tyre valve
5. Let the machine adjust the pressure automatically if supported
6. Replace all valve caps
If your tyres are underinflated:
1. Remove the valve cap
2. Attach a pump or compressor
3. Add air in short bursts
4. Check the pressure regularly with a gauge
5. Stop when the tyre reaches the recommended pressure
6. Replace the valve cap
Avoid overinflating your tyres, as this can affect handling and tyre wear.
If your tyres are overinflated:
1. Remove the valve cap
2. Press the valve stem, or use a gauge with a release button
3. Release air in small amounts
4. Recheck the pressure frequently
5. Stop when the tyre reaches the correct level
6. Replace the valve cap
Vehicle-Specific Notes
Cars and vans
Follow the pressure guidance on the door sticker or in the handbook. Check all tyres, including the spare, especially on vans.
Caravans
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and check pressure before travelling, as loads can vary.
Motorbikes
Check both tyres individually. Correct tyre pressure is especially important for stability and grip.
Yes, temperature has a direct impact on tyre pressure.
As a general guide:
This is why regular tyre pressure checks are important throughout the year.
Keeping your tyres at the correct pressure improves safety, performance, and tyre lifespan – and only takes a few minutes to check.