Tips to Ensure Your Tyres are Inflated to the Correct Pressures
October 19, 2015

Your car is riding on air. Literally. Come to think of it, the air inside your tyres supports the vehicle’s entire weight. Whether you’re using 4WD or 4×4 tyres, it’s important to ensure your tyres are inflated to the right pressures. Overinflating and underinflating your tyres can result in a variety of problems like uneven tyre wear and sudden blow outs.

To avoid problems on the road, follow these steps to ensure correct pressures.

#1. See the car manufacturer’s manual.

Car manufacturers typically have guidelines for your tyre’s ideal inflation. Most of the time, they recommend the minimum pressure which can be seen on a tyre placard. This placard can be found on the driver’s side door. Ideal inflation is based on conditions that your car will likely face including load weight and number of passengers. You have to remember though that the manufacturer’s recommended pressure doesn’t translate into optimum tyre performance. The max pressure is not all the pressure your tyre can handle but the pressure at which it can support the maximum weight.

#2. Check pressure when tyres are cold.

Air pressure is best checked when your tyres are cold. Checking on cold tyres will give you a more accurate reading. There is an increase in air pressure when the tyres have warmed up after you’ve driven the car. When you check, make sure you haven’t driven for more than 2 kilometres.

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#3. Measure the air pressure using an air pressure gauge.

Never just rely on your eyes to measure the air pressure of your mobile tyres. Remove your tyre’s valve stem cap and press the air pressure gauge tightly unto it. If you hear a hissing sound, the gauge may not be tight enough. Adjust the gauge’s angle, making sure it’s tight, in order to get an accurate reading. Compare the reading with the pressure indicated in the car’s manual. The amount of pressure should match, otherwise you’ll need to adjust as necessary to ensure your tyres are at the right pressures.

#4. Add extra to rear tyres if you’re carrying a heavier load.
One thing you have to remember about air pressure is that the front and rear tyres may require different pressures. You may need to increase the pressure on the rear tyres if you’re carrying heavier loads. If you’re traveling a long distance with heavy cargo, don’t forget to increase the pressure and release it back to standard specifications once the weight has been unloaded.

#5. Check air pressure between seasons.

Cold weather reduces air pressure. On the other hand, warm weather causes the air to expand and thus increase the pressure. It would be necessary to check the pressure as the seasons change to make sure it is always at the right amount.

Your tyre’s pressure should be checked at least every month. Keeping them at the correct pressures will ensure better grip, long tyre life and increase fuel economy. So take some time to do regular checks. In the long run, you’ll be the one to reap the benefits.

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