How to Check your Tire Pressure
Tips on How To Properly Check Your Tire Pressure
Did you know that most tire damage and wear is a result of driving on tires that are improperly inflated? That is why we suggest you check your tire's air pressure at least once per month. While it's easy to neglect your tires, performing a few simple checks can save you time and money down the road.
At Maple Honda, we care about our community, our neighbours, and our friends. That is why we want all automotive consumers in Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, Aurora, and Newmarket, to know the basics of how to properly check your tire's air pressure. This simple task is especially important if you currently do not have Honda's Roadside Assistance Protection.
The Importance of Checking Your Tire Pressure
Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for many reasons other than reducing the probability of a flat tire or a blowout. The ability to properly handle your vehicle is dependent on your tire's pressure being at the proper inflation level. Even if your tire doesn't appear to be low on air, it can still result in poor vehicle handling and extreme tread wear.
Tires that are not inflated to the accurate air pressure will have increased friction when in movement. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and will require more energy, aka fuel. Over-inflated tires also suffer from reduced handling and efficiency because contact between the rubber and the road is minimized.
Improper inflation puts needless stress on your tires and can result in excessive or uneven wear. When this happens, it compromises your tires' performance and could result in premature tire wear. Tires with uneven tread wear can potentially lead to an accident.
How To Correctly Check Your Tire Pressure?
To start, you will need a tire pressure gauge, air compressor, pen, and paper. Your tire pressure gauge can be digital or standard. If you are uncomfortable checking your tire's air pressure on your own, schedule a service appointment or come by our Service Centre, where we are always happy to help.
- Vehicle manufacturers specify PSI assuming tires are cold. Tires are considered cold when the vehicle is parked for more than 3 hours, or if it has been driven less than 1 km at a moderate speed. It is always best to start this task with cold tires if possible.
- Reference your owner's manual to find the recommended cold tire PSI for your font and rear tires. If you cannot find it, contact us. If your front and back tires require different PSI, write down the correct PSI for each to avoid getting confused.
- Detach the valve cap from each tire and place the pressure gauge on the valve stem. Press down hard enough until the hissing sound disappears, and your indicator gives a reading. Write down the reading and repeat.
- If any of your tires are below the recommended PSI, use an air compressor to refill the tire(s) to the proper level.