Your tires are important to several aspects of your vehicle. They play a role in the safety, handling, and even the fuel efficiency of your car. When your tire pressure is off, it affects your tire’s ability to perform properly, in turn affecting your entire vehicle. But how much air should you put into your tire to reach the right pressure? Use these simple tips from Hummel’s Automotive Diagnostic and Repair to get the perfect psi for your tires.
Check Your Car Door
Most manufacturers indicate the appropriate air pressure or PSI for their vehicles using a sticker placed inside the driver’s side door. The number you are looking for will be in terms of pounds per square inch. If your car doesn’t have a sticker, the information will be in your owner’s manual and if you don’t have a manual handy you should be able to find one online with a quick search.
Use Your Tire Pressure Gauge
A tire pressure gauge is one of the handiest tools you can keep in your car. They can be found at any automotive store, are inexpensive, and easily fit in your glove compartment. It is recommended that you check your tire pressure when your tires or cold or haven’t been driven on in at least three hours. The best time to check is in the morning before you have started driving for the day. If your reading comes back lower than the recommended PSI, you need to add air to your tire.
Inflating Your Tires
When you are inflating your tire it is important to remember that overinflated tires are just as bad as underinflated tires so you should have your tire pressure gauge handy. Using an air compressor at home or one at your local gas station, fit the hose to the tire valve stem and press down. You will hear a hissing sound as the air enters your tire. If you have an air compressor that includes a gauge, simply inflate the tire until the gauge reaches your desired PSI. If you don’t use your tire gauge periodically throughout the process.
If you notice that your tires are consistently underinflated despite frequent PSI checks and inflations, your tire may be leaking due to a puncture or tire damage. The experts at Hummel’s Automotive Diagnostic and Repair in St. George, UT, are here to help. Call us today to schedule your next service or repair appointment.
