How to Check Tyre Pressure
Learn how to check and inflate your tyres to the correct pressure in just 5 minutes. Save money on fuel and keep your family safe.
Why It's Important
Correct tyre pressure is one of the most important safety checks you can do. It takes just 5 minutes and can save you hundreds of pounds a year.
- Save on Fuel: Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption by up to 3%
- Extend Tyre Life: Correct pressure can extend tyre life by 25%
- Stay Safe: Prevents blowouts and improves braking distance
What You'll Need
- Tyre pressure gauge (digital or analogue) - £5-£15 from any petrol station or Halfords
- Your car's handbook (to find recommended pressures, or check driver's door frame/fuel cap)
- Access to an air pump (at most petrol stations, usually free or 20p-50p)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Find Your Recommended Tyre Pressure
Your car's recommended tyre pressure is usually found in one of these places:
- Inside the driver's door frame (on a sticker)
- Inside the fuel filler cap
- In the owner's manual
Tip: Many cars have different pressures for front and rear tyres, and higher pressures when fully loaded.
2. Check When Tyres Are Cold
Tyre pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold (before driving or at least 2 hours after driving). Warm tyres give inaccurate readings.
⚠️ If you must check warm tyres, add 3-4 PSI to the recommended pressure, but re-check when cold.
3. Remove the Valve Cap
Unscrew the plastic cap from the tyre valve. Keep it safe - you'll need to put it back on.
4. Check the Pressure
Press the tyre pressure gauge firmly onto the valve. You'll hear a brief hiss of air - this is normal. The gauge will show your current tyre pressure in PSI or BAR.
5. Add or Release Air
If pressure is too low: Use an air pump to add air. Check frequently to avoid over-inflating.
If pressure is too high: Press the small pin in the valve with your gauge or a pen to release air in short bursts.
6. Replace the Valve Cap
Screw the valve cap back on tightly. It keeps dirt out and acts as a secondary seal.
7. Repeat for All Tyres
Check all four tyres, plus your spare if you have one. Don't forget to check the spare every few months!
Typical Tyre Pressures
These are general guidelines for UK cars. Always check your specific vehicle's handbook.
| Vehicle Type | Front Tyres | Rear Tyres |
|---|---|---|
| Small Car (e.g., Fiesta, Corsa, Polo) | 30-32 PSI | 28-30 PSI |
| Family Car (e.g., Focus, Golf, Astra) | 32-35 PSI | 30-33 PSI |
| SUV/4x4 (e.g., Qashqai, Tiguan, Sportage) | 33-36 PSI | 33-36 PSI |
| Large Car/Estate (e.g., Mondeo, Passat, Superb) | 32-35 PSI | 32-35 PSI |
⚠️ Always check your handbook - these are general guidelines only.
How Often Should You Check?
- At least once a month - Tyres naturally lose 1-2 PSI per month
- Before long journeys - Especially motorway driving
- When carrying heavy loads - May need higher pressure
- When seasons change - Temperature affects pressure
⚠️ Warning Signs
If you need to add air more than once a month, you may have a slow puncture. Get your tyres checked by a professional immediately.
- • Frequent pressure loss
- • Uneven wear patterns on tyres
- • Car pulling to one side
- • Tyre warning light stays on
Track Your Car Maintenance
Log tyre pressure checks and all your maintenance in AutoChain. Keep a complete digital service history and never miss important car care tasks.