How to Check Your Tire Pressure

Ding! A signal sounds and a little dashboard icon lights up. One or more of your tires is low on air pressure. Don’t ignore it. Low tire pressure could lead to a flat or a blowout. At the very least, your tires will wear out faster due to uneven wear. All of that means a lot more time, hassle, and money.

It’s time to become a she-chanic. You can do this!

Step 1:

Be sure to keep a tire pressure gauge in your glove box.  If you don’t have one, you can (and should) pick one up at a nearby auto parts store.

Step 2:

Look for a sticker on the inside edge of your front driver’s side door. That’s where you can find the recommended PSI (pounds of air per square inch) for your vehicle’s operation. If you can’t find it there, check your owner’s manual.  

This is not the same as the maximum pressure number you may find on your tire. Filling to maximum pressure will overinflate your tire for driving, so make sure you are using the operational pressure from your car manufacture.

Step 3:

Unscrew the little air-valve cap on the inside of your tire. If you’re missing the cap, these are easy and inexpensive to replace. Just head to a nearby auto parts store and pick up a pack.

Step 4:

Attach the gauge to the valve and the current PSI number should appear.

Step 5:

If the pressure is low, drive to the nearest gas station and look for an air pump. This service is usually free.

Step 6:

Add air, checking it with the gauge often to make sure you don’t overfill the tire. If it is too high, simply use the backend of the gauge to press down on the valve to release some air, then check it again.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Want to see the process in action?  Watch this video.

To get more tips on simple mechanics, visit: GirlsAutoClinic.com