How to Check Tire Pressure Without a Tire Pressure Monitoring System?
3 Answers
If the car does not have a tire pressure monitoring system, you can install a tire pressure monitoring device on the tires. Simply screw the sensor onto the tire, and the dashboard will display the specific tire pressure value. Alternatively, you can use a tire pressure gauge to measure and determine whether the tire pressure is normal. Tire pressure monitoring involves real-time automatic monitoring of tire pressure during driving, alerting the driver to tire leaks or low pressure to ensure driving safety. There are three commonly used methods for tire pressure monitoring: Direct Tire Pressure Monitoring: The direct tire pressure monitoring device uses pressure sensors installed in each tire to directly measure tire pressure. It transmits the pressure data wirelessly from inside the tire to a central receiver module, which then displays the pressure data for each tire. The system automatically alerts the driver if the tire pressure is too low or if there is a leak. Indirect Tire Pressure Monitoring: When the pressure in a tire decreases, the vehicle's weight causes the rolling radius of that tire to become smaller, making it rotate faster than the other wheels. By comparing the rotational speed differences between tires, the system monitors tire pressure. Indirect tire pressure alert systems essentially rely on calculating the rolling radius of the tires to monitor pressure. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Introduction: This system combines the advantages of the two aforementioned methods. It equips direct sensors in two diagonally opposite tires and includes a four-wheel indirect system. Compared to a fully direct system, this hybrid system reduces costs and overcomes the limitation of indirect systems, which cannot detect low pressure in multiple tires simultaneously. However, it still cannot provide real-time pressure data for all four tires as effectively as a direct system.
I don't have a tire pressure monitoring system and have always used the old-school method to check tire pressure. It's worked for me over decades of driving. Just buy a manual tire pressure gauge—it's a matter of a few dozen bucks and super easy to use. The most accurate readings come when the tires are cold, meaning you should check them after the car has been parked for at least three hours. Don't do it right after a long highway drive when the tires are hot, as the readings will be higher. The standard tire pressure is listed on the label inside the door frame or fuel cap—just adjust accordingly. I make it a habit to check once a month and always before a long trip to avoid driving with unnoticed leaks. If the pressure is low, use an air pump to inflate; if it's high, gently release some air. Remember, regular checks keep you safe, save fuel, slow tire wear, and prevent blowouts. These small habits come from years of driving experience—don't slack off.
As a novice driver, I just learned this trick for checking tire pressure. I don't have that monitoring system, but I bought a digital tire pressure gauge kit with tutorials. First, check the door label to find the standard value, then measure the pressure when the tires are cold before driving in the morning by pressing the gauge firmly onto the tire valve. If it's low, use a portable inflator to add air; if it's high, slightly unscrew the valve to release some air. My friend suggested checking every two weeks to develop a good habit. This step is crucial - insufficient tire pressure can make the car unstable, cause shaking at high speeds, and may increase fuel consumption. The tools aren't expensive and can be bought online, and you'll get the hang of it after a few practices.
