How to Check Car Tire Pressure?
2 Answers
Tire pressure can be checked in two ways: 1. Using a tire pressure gauge. For most vehicle models, manually checking with a tire pressure gauge is the most direct and accurate method. It is recommended to have service personnel check it during each maintenance or car wash, or you can purchase a tire pressure gauge for a few dozen yuan to conveniently check the tire pressure anytime. 2. Using the tire pressure monitoring function. More and more vehicle models are now equipped with tire pressure monitoring functions, allowing owners to check the four-wheel pressure without leaving the car, simply by operating the onboard computer.
I've been driving for over a decade and always make it a habit to check tire pressure before heading out, mainly for safety concerns. The simplest method is using a tire pressure gauge, which is inexpensive and available at hardware stores. Make sure the car is parked and the tires are cold—ideally left overnight or unused for several hours—since driving heats up the tires and skews the readings. First, locate the label on the door jamb or fuel filler cap, which shows the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure, usually in PSI or BAR. Then, press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem for an instant reading. Overinflation causes faster wear in the center and increases blowout risks, while underinflation leads to higher fuel consumption and sidewall damage. I check all four tires at the start of each month and inspect the valve stems for leaks—this routine can extend tire life by 2–3 years. Since adopting this habit, my car handles more steadily, even at high speeds without skidding. New drivers might overlook this, but it only takes a few minutes and makes a big difference.
