Checking Tire Pressure

Here's a little tip on saving time and effort when responding to "Low Tire Pressure" or "Check Tire Pressure" messages displayed on car's dashboard. Before you head off to the dealership and incur a service charge to fix it, save yourself some time and money by checking the PSI (Pressure per Square Inch) of all tires on your car, including the spare tire buried in the trunk of your car. Don't assume the problem applies only to the car's 4 primary tires. It's often the spare tire that trips the tire pressure warning.

If your car is fairly new, it is likely to have a Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system installed. These modules, designed to improve safety and save money, warn drivers of under inflation, leaks, and loss of air pressure within the tire that occurs over time. How does it work? Each tire has a TPM module (usually an antenna within the tire valve), implementing a direct monitor provided by the car's central electronics with a pressure reading by tire and over a wireless link back your display monitor.


A few friendly tips on tire pressure:

- Check your tire pressure regularly for best results on mileage and to maintain the safety of your cars.

- Tires tend to under inflate more in the summer months due to the warmer weather. Under-inflated tires can lead to poor wear on the treads and cause poor/delayed breaking - putting you at greater risk of an accident. Over-inflated tires will give you a bumpy ride. (Hint: Check your ties and scarves. If they have coffee stains, your tire pressure may be too high!)

- Check the Driver side door for the correct PSI (Pressure per Square Inch) for your tires. If this information is not displayed on your door panel, check the owner's manual. Your tires also include a PSI rating. If there is a different between the PSI listed on the door panel and the tire, use the PSI on the door panel. Your tires list the maximize tire pressure allowable; your door panel lists the recommended pressure for your car.

- Don't assume all tires have the same PSI. PSI for your spare tire may be different than the PSI for your four primary tires. Check to make sure each tire is properly inflated for optimal performance and safety.

For more information on tire pressure, check out Car Talk or Ask.Cars.com