How to Check Tyre Pressure and Why It Matters

Under-inflated tyres are one of the most common and most overlooked causes of poor fuel economy, uneven wear, and reduced braking performance — and they are free to check.

Find the correct pressure

The correct pressure for your car is usually printed on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame or fuel filler flap, or listed in the owner’s manual. It is not the same as the maximum pressure printed on the tyre’s sidewall — use the figure for your specific car.

Check when tyres are cold

Tyre pressure rises as tyres heat up from driving, so check first thing before a longer journey, not immediately after one, for an accurate reading.

How to check

Remove the valve cap, press the gauge firmly onto the valve until the hissing stops, and read the pressure. Most fuel stations have a free or low-cost air pump with a built-in gauge if you do not have your own.

Why it matters

Under-inflated tyres wear unevenly (often more on the outer edges), increase fuel consumption, and increase stopping distances. Over-inflated tyres wear more in the centre and reduce grip in the middle of the tread.

Do not forget the spare

A flat spare is only useful when it is not flat — check it along with the other four, especially before a long trip.