Car Tyre Pressure: How to Check, Maintenance

A correct car tyre pressure ensures that your car is safe, easy to handle, and fuel efficient. Explore how to check car tyre pressure and maintain it.
Last updated 2 weeks ago
Image showing car tyre air pressure being measured
Last updated 2 weeks ago

Tyres may only be one of the thousands of components that keep the car moving on the road. However, it is safe to say that there is more than just the car that is riding on those tyres. From efficiency to safety, tyres have an impact on nearly every aspect of a car’s performance. 

Maintaining the optimum car tyre pressure is crucial to the overall health of the tyres. This blog explores how you can determine the correct tyre pressure for your car, its importance, and also the factors that influence it.

What is Tyre Pressure?

Car tyre pressure is a measurement of how much air is in your car’s tyres. The tyre pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) or kilopascals (kPa). Every car has its own specification for pressure but they all generally fall in between 32 and 35 PSI. The main benefit of correct tyre pressure is that it improves fuel efficiency, safety while driving, and also the longevity of your car tyres.

Why proper Tyre Pressure matters?

A regular tyre pressure check is important for every car owner as optimal pressure car tyres tend to lose air over time. If your tyres are too low on pressure, they use more fuel and wear out unevenly. If the tyre pressure is too high, they ride bumpy and might blow out. An inappropriately inflated tyre makes it more difficult to control your car on the road. This reduces your ability to accurately steer, corner, accelerate, and brake.

Tyre pressure changes with the weather, as well. In cold weather, tyres lose pressure, affecting how well they grip the road. When it gets warmer, they gain pressure. This is why a frequent tyre pressure check is key for safety and performance. Here are possible problems you may face if you do not maintain proper tyre pressure:

Underinflated TyresOverinflated Tyres
Reduced fuel efficiencyBumpier/harsher ride
Uneven tread wearIncreased risk of blowouts
Longer braking distancesFaster wear in the centre of the tread
Reduced steering responsivenessNegatively impacts driving comfort, directional stability, and vehicle handling

Recommended Tyre Pressure

The recommended car tyre pressure is shown on all cars either on the sticker on the driver’s side door or in the car owner’s manual. The vehicle manufacturer sets this pressure and is the most suitable PSI for your car’s tyres. Following this recommendation is the key to avoid performance and safety issues.

Most cars need tyre pressure between 32-36 PSI. Here is a recommended tyre pressure for famous car brands and models:

Maruti Suzuki
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
Alto 80030 PSI30 PSI
Celerio36 PSI33 PSI
WagonR33 PSI33 PSI
Swift29-32 PSI29 PSI
Ignis36 PSI32 PSI
Baleno29-32 PSI29 PSI
Dzire29-32 PSI29-32 PSI
Ciaz29-32 PSI29 PSI
S-Presso33-36 PSI32-33 PSI
S-Cross33-36 PSI33-36 PSI
Vitara Brezza33 PSI33 PSI
Ertiga30-35 PSI30-35 PSI
XL-629 PSI29 PSI
Eeco26 PSI33 PSI
Hyundai
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
Santro35 PSI35 PSI
Grand i10 NIOS33 PSI33 PSI
i2030-32 PSI30-32 PSI
Aura35 PSI33 PSI
Verna33 PSI33 PSI
Elantra33 PSI33 PSI
Venue33-36 PSI33-38 PSI
Creta33 PSI35 PSI
Alcazar33-35 PSI33-35 PSI
Tucson33 PSI33 PSI
Kona36 PSI36 PSI
Tata
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
Tiago33 PSI30 PSI
Altroz32 PSI32 PSI
Tigor30-35 PSI30 PSI
Punch32 PSI32 PSI
Safari25-30 PSI25-30 PSI
Harrier33 PSI33 PSI
Nexon32 PSI32 PSI
Mahindra
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
XUV70033-35 PSI33-35 PSI
XUV30033-34 PSI33-34 PSI
XUV50030-32 PSI30-32 PSI
Thar30-35 PSI30-35 PSI
Alturas G434 PSI34 PSI
Scorpio35-40 PSI35-40 PSI
Bolero32-35 PSI32-35 PSI
Bolero Neo32-35 PSI32-35 PSI
Marazzo35 PSI35 PSI
KUV10033-34 PSI33-34 PSI
Honda
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
Amaze28-30 PSI28-30 PSI
City 5th Gen30-35 PSI30-35 PSI
City 4th Gen30-35 PSI30-35 PSI
WR-V32-35 PSI30-32 PSI
Jazz33 PSI33 PSI
Renault
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
Kiger30-35 PSI30-35 PSI
Triber33-34 PSI33-34 PSI
Kwid30-32 PSI30-32 PSI
Duster35 PSI35 PSI
Nissan
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
Magnite30-35 PSI30-35 PSI
Kicks33-34 PSI33-34 PSI
Toyota
ModelTyre Pressure Front WheelsTyre Pressure Rear Wheels
Glanza33-34 PSI33-34 PSI
Urban Cruiser33 PSI33 PSI
Innova Crysta32-36 PSI32-36 PSI
Fortuner30-35 PSI30-35 PSI

How to check Tyre Pressure?

Incorrect tyre pressure places tremendous strain on the engine, which has a direct effect on car mileage. Ensuring a periodic tyre pressure check helps you maintain your car tyres in optimum condition. Here is how you can check tyre pressure:

Use tyre pressure gauge

Tire Pressure Gauge

You will need an air pressure gauge to conduct an accurate tyre pressure check. The recommended pressure for your car tyres can be found in your car’s manual. Use a tyre pressure monitoring gauge to keep your tyres at the right air pressure levels.

Remember that there are different types of gauges, like dial, stick, and digital. Next, inflate your tyres with a portable inflator or at a tyre shop. Always check the pressure again after inflating.

Checking tyre air pressure without a gauge

If you don’t have a gauge and your car doesn’t have a built-in system, you can still check the pressure physically:

  • Feel the tyres with your foot. If they’re firm, the pressure is likely normal. But if they’re soft, they’re underinflated.
  • If your car feels bumpy or unstable, check the tyre pressure. This could be a sign of high pressure.

Understanding Tyre Pressure Gauges

Tyre pressure gauges measure the air pressure inside a car’s tyres. There are two main types: digital and standard. Digital gauges show readings that are correct to the decimal, making them a favourite among drivers. Standard gauges use a sliding bar to show pressure.

Although checking tyre pressure without a gauge can give you an idea of whether the tyre is underinflated or overinflated, it is not recommended. Tyre pressure gauges give you accurate results by simply fastening it to the valve stem of the tyre.

Digital gauges are the most accurate. Bourdon tube and diaphragm gauges are also precise but less user-friendly than digital ones. It’s crucial to pick a gauge that gives consistent and reliable readings.

When to check Tyre Pressure?

Tyre bursting has been the cause of 35–40% of accidents in India alone within the last five years. One of the most frequent causes of accidents is tyre blowouts that occur because of high tyre pressure.

This shows that we often overlook the importance of car tyre pressure. It is recommended to check the pressure in your car tyres at least once in 10 days, even if it looks fine. The best time is when the tyres are cold, meaning the car has been parked for at least three hours or driven less than 1 mile.

Regular checks, especially before long drives, help keep tyres inflated at the right pressure and running well. In winter, it is vital to check more often because cold air can lower pressure by up to five PSI.

Common Tyre Pressure issues and their solutions

Many drivers encounter common car tyre pressure problems. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent issues and how to address them:

  • Underinflated tyres: Underinflated tyres make your car use more fuel, wear out faster, and even blow out. To fix this, use an air compressor to add air until they’re at the right pressure.
  • Overinflated tyres: Overinflated tyres can make your ride bumpier, reduce traction, and wear out the centre of the tread. If tyre pressure is high, use a tyre pressure gauge to let air out.
  • Seasonal Temperature Changes: Colder weather can make tyres deflate, while hot weather can make them inflate. Tyre inflation services can help keep your tyres safe by adjusting for these changes.
  • Worn or Damaged tyres: Problems with the wheel or rim can cause low pressure on your old and worn tyres. Get your wheel straightened or rim repaired to improve your tyre’s performance and save fuel.

Effect of Temperature on Tyre Pressure

Cold weather causes tyre pressure to decrease, while hot weather makes it rise. What this means for you as a car owner is that you will need to frequently pump air into your car tyres if you live somewhere in the cold. If the weather is hot where you live, you will need to frequently release air from your car tyres to maintain appropriate pressure levels.

Here is the common effect of temperature on car tyre pressure:

Temperature Changetyre Pressure Change
1°C Decrease0.19 PSI Decrease
20°C Decrease (27°C to 7°C)3.8 PSI Decrease
5 Minutes of Driving1 PSI Increase (up to 4-5 PSI)
Sun Exposure on Black tyresUp to 15% Pressure Increase
TPMS VariationUp to 10 PSI

The Role of Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)

Image showing Tyre Pressure Monitoring System Active

Modern cars often come with Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS). This technology notifies you if your tyres are too low on pressure. It checks each wheel’s pressure and lights up a dashboard warning if it is off the mark.

There are two kinds of TPMS: indirect and direct. Indirect TPMS is reasonably priced and gives exact pressure readings and can check temperature, too. Direct TPMS is pricier but offers more accurate data and easier setup after tyre changes.

Signs of Incorrect Tyre Pressure

How do you know if your tyre pressure is incorrect? Here are some signs to watch out for:

  • Uneven tyre wear: If your tyres wear out more on the edges or in the centre, it’s a sign of under or over-inflation.
  • Reduced fuel efficiency: A sudden drop in your car’s fuel efficiency might mean your tyres are underinflated.
  • Poor handling: If your car feels sluggish or doesn’t handle as well as usual, check your tyre pressure.
  • Frequent tyre deflation: If you’re constantly losing tyre pressure, it might indicate a slow leak or tyre damage.

Impact of Load and Weight on Tyre Pressure

Your vehicle’s load and weight greatly affect the tyre pressure. When your car is full of passengers or cargo, the tyres need more air. This is to handle the extra weight. It’s harder to pump up the tyres because of this extra air. To find the right pressure, check your owner’s manual or the tyre sticker. Not adjusting the pressure can harm your car’s handling and wear down the tyres.

Summary

Keeping your tyre pressure right is key for your car’s safety, how well it runs, and how much fuel it uses. Check your tyre pressure often, use the correct gauge, and adjust it as the maker says. By following these tips, you’ll keep your car safe, running well, and using less fuel. Regular checks and the right pressure can stop accidents, make your car run better, and also last longer.

FAQ’s

  1. Q. Where can I find the recommended tyre pressure for my vehicle?

    You can find the recommended car tyre pressure in your owner’s manual. It’s also on the tyre information sticker, often on the driver’s side door jamb.

  2. Q. How do I check my tyre pressure?

    First, make sure your tyres are cold. Then, remove the valve stem cap. Place a tyre pressure gauge on the valve stem to get a reading. Compare it to the recommended PSI and adjust as needed.

  3. Q. What types of tyre pressure gauges are available?

    There are digital and standard gauges. Digital gauges show the pressure with digital readings. Standard gauges use a sliding bar.

  4. Q. How often should I check my tyre pressure?

    Check your tyre pressure at least once a month. Do it even if your tyres look fine. Also, check before long-distance trips.

  5. Q. What are the common tyre pressure issues, and how do I fix them?

    If your tyres are underinflated, add air until they reach the right PSI. For overinflated tyres, briefly press the valve stem to release air until it’s correct.

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Car Tyre Pressure: How to Check, Maintenance

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