How to Understand Car Tire Pressure?

[DiElle]

How to know the tire pressure of a car? The methods are as follows: We can determine whether the tire pressure is normal based on the contact condition of the tire tread. By visually observing the number of tire treads in contact with the ground, if the number of treads in contact matches the number we previously recorded under normal tire pressure, then the tire pressure of our car is normal. If the number of treads in contact is more than this, it indicates that the tire pressure is too low; if it is less, it means the tire pressure is too high. The number of treads in contact under normal tire pressure varies for different cars. For one car, the normal number of treads in contact is 3-4. If the number exceeds 4, it means the tire pressure is too low; if it is fewer than 3, it indicates the tire pressure is too high. Under normal circumstances, when observing the tire at normal pressure, visually estimate the contact area between the tire and the ground from the side. A 375px contact area is under normal tire pressure and can be used as a benchmark. If it is less than 375px, the tire pressure is too high; if it is more than 375px, the tire pressure is too low.

[SanLeo]

I'm used to checking tire pressure myself with a tire pressure gauge, which is actually quite simple. Before driving, I usually walk around the car to see if any tires look noticeably flat. I bought a mechanical tire pressure gauge for just over twenty yuan – just unscrew the valve cap and press it on to get a reading. Remember to measure when the tires are cold; checking right after highway driving will give a higher reading. I found the standard tire pressure values on the label inside the driver's door frame – it varies for different vehicles. In winter, you should add a bit more air, while in summer, high temperatures can cause overinflation. I also keep a portable air pump handy to top up when needed. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial – too high and the center wears out faster, too low wastes fuel and damages the sidewalls. Oh, and it's best to check whenever seasons change.

[SanWilliam]

As someone who frequently drives long distances, I pay special attention to tire pressure. My experience is to check it weekly, and using a digital tire pressure gauge is more accurate. A car-mounted air pump is truly an essential tool—it takes just two seconds to top up low tire pressure. The recommended tire pressure values are usually listed on the inside of the fuel filler cap, though the exact location may vary by car model. Before hitting the highway, I always carefully check all four tires. During long-distance driving, tire temperature rises, so it's best to keep the cold tire pressure 0.1-0.2 BAR lower than the standard value. Once, I drove on a mountain road with low tire pressure and clearly felt the steering wheel becoming unstable while fuel consumption increased. Remember, when topping up, don’t just fill one tire—keep all four balanced. Also, check the spare tire regularly so you don’t find it flat when you need it.

[DiNaomi]

When I first drove the new car home, I didn’t even prepare a tire pressure gauge. It wasn’t until the salesperson reminded me that I started paying attention. Now, I’ve developed the habit of checking it monthly—it’s actually quite simple: after parking for three hours, unscrew the valve cap and press the tire pressure gauge onto it to get the reading. My standard values are on page 36 of the user manual. I remember the first time I measured, I forgot about the cold tire condition and took a reading right after getting off the highway, which gave a higher result. Later, I noticed free inflation services at gas stations, so now I check it every time I refuel. If the tire pressure is too low, the steering feels heavier; if it’s too high, the ride becomes noticeably bumpy. I’ve also seen people judging by tire tread patterns, but experienced drivers say tools are more reliable.