When was the last time you checked your tyre pressure? For many drivers, this is something we forget to do until there’s a problem.
It’s important not to overlook your tyres – they impact not only the drive of your car but fuel efficiency and grip. Damaged or tyres that don’t have the correct pressure can not only lead to a breakdown but could also be dangerous if you end up in an accident.
Fortunately, checking your tyre pressure is something that you can easily do at home.
How to check your tyre pressure
Petrol stations often have a gauge to check your tyre pressure if you don’t have one at home. Before you start, it’s a good idea to make sure your tyres are cold to avoid inaccurate readings.
Make sure you know your car’s correct tyre pressure, as it can slightly differ from car to car. If you’re not sure, it should tell you inside the drivers door or in your vehicle handbook.
- Remove the cap from the tyre valve
- Place the gauge onto the stem and push until the hissing stops. If the hissing doesn’t stop, try again. This can take a couple times to get the hang of it.
- Check the PSI reading to see if they’re too low, high, or just right.
That’s it! The checks take under a minute, but can save you a lot of stress down the road. You can then adjust your pressure accordingly.
What happens if you drive with the incorrect pressure?
Driving with both under and over inflated tyres can be dangerous. It’s estimated that 40% of car faults are related to under-inflated tyres.
If your tyres are under-inflated, your braking distances and grip are hugely impacted. It can take up to 8 times longer to brake, meaning you’re more likely to get into an accident. Your car also has to work harder, meaning more fuel is used which will be more expensive for you at the pump.
The consequences of over-inflated tyres can be similar, with tread wearing away more quickly because there’s less tyre in contact with the road. This is again more expensive in the long run, because your tyres won’t last as long.
Tyre pressure isn’t lasting?
If you’ve inflated your tyres but you’re find that they’re losing pressure quickly, there could be a few issues at play.
- Puncture
- Low-quality tyres
- Faulty tyre valve
- Damaged wheel rim
Unless you have an obvious puncture, it can sometimes be difficult to see what is causing your problem. The best thing to do is to take it to a garage like Bodymek who can help you find and fix the issue. Give us a call on 01604 589179 for free, friendly advice.
