How to Check and Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the most important aspects of tire care and vehicle safety. Incorrect tire pressure can lead to poor fuel economy, uneven tire wear, reduced handling performance, and even tire failure. Here's your comprehensive guide to tire pressure monitoring and maintenance. Need professional tire pressure services in Stittsville or Kanata? QuickStop Tire Ottawa can help!

Why Tire Pressure Matters

Proper tire pressure ensures optimal contact between your tires and the road surface. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency by up to 3%, while overinflated tires reduce traction and can cause uneven wear patterns. Both conditions compromise your vehicle's handling and safety.

Finding the Correct Pressure

Your vehicle's recommended tire pressure can be found in several places: the owner's manual, a sticker on the driver's side door jamb, or inside the glove compartment. This pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch) and is specific to your vehicle's make, model, and year. Never use the pressure listed on the tire sidewall, as this is the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle.

How to Check Tire Pressure

Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold (before driving or at least three hours after driving). Use a reliable tire pressure gauge - digital gauges are generally more accurate than analog ones. Remove the valve cap, press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem, and read the pressure. Check all four tires plus your spare tire if you have one.

When to Check Pressure

Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Temperature changes affect tire pressure - for every 10°F change in temperature, tire pressure changes by about 1 PSI. This is especially important in Ottawa's climate where temperatures can vary significantly between seasons.

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

Most modern vehicles are equipped with TPMS, which alerts you when tire pressure is significantly low. However, TPMS is not a substitute for regular manual checks, as it only warns when pressure drops 25% below the recommended level. Regular manual checks can catch pressure issues before they become safety concerns.

Adding or Releasing Air

If your tires are underinflated, add air using a compressor at a gas station or with a portable air compressor. If overinflated, release air by pressing the center pin in the valve stem with a small tool. Always recheck the pressure after adjusting to ensure accuracy.

At QuickStop Tire Ottawa, we offer free tire pressure checks as part of our comprehensive tire services. Our professional technicians can help you understand your vehicle's specific pressure requirements and ensure your tires are properly inflated for optimal performance and safety. Contact us today for a free tire pressure check!

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