Should You Read the Inner or Outer Circle on a Tire Pressure Gauge?
2 Answers
For an air pump pressure gauge, read the inner circle, with the normal value ranging from 2.2 to 2.4 bar. The method for checking car tire pressure with a gauge is as follows: Align and press the measurement end slot of the tire pressure gauge firmly against the tire valve stem. At this point, the pointer on the tire pressure gauge will deflect, and the indicated value is the tire's inflation pressure. Alternatively, the gauge's indicator rod may extend under pressure, displaying the tire's inflation pressure. Methods for tire maintenance include: 1. Regularly remove stones stuck in the tire treads; 2. Avoid exposing tires to prolonged sunlight; 3. Frequently check tire pressure—refer to the normal pressure values listed on the inside of the car's fuel tank cap and adjust accordingly; 4. Pay attention to suspension maintenance; 5. Periodically inspect front wheel alignment.
I remember when I first bought my car, I loved tinkering with the tires myself. The inner and outer rings of the tire pressure gauge can indeed be confusing. Generally, the inner ring displays pressure in PSI (pounds per square inch), while the outer ring shows metric units like bar or kPa. You should first check where the recommended tire pressure is listed on your car—usually on the door frame or fuel filler cap. For example, if it recommends 35 PSI, focus on the inner ring reading; if it's 2.4 bar, look at the outer ring. Mixing up the units is dangerous—low tire pressure increases fuel consumption and tire wear, while high pressure can cause a bumpy ride or even a blowout. I prefer checking the pressure in the morning when the car is cold for more accurate readings. Using a tire pressure gauge is simple: press it firmly onto the valve stem, wait a few seconds, and read the stabilized needle. Checking monthly saves fuel costs and prevents safety hazards. Tires are the feet of your car—keeping them well-maintained ensures a smoother and safer drive, especially before long trips.
