Ensuring your car’s tyres are properly inflated is not only crucial for your safety on the road but also for the longevity of your tyres and the efficiency of your vehicle. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about inflating your car tyres, whether you’re at home or at the petrol station.
When should I check and inflate my tyres?
Regular tyre checks are essential for maintaining optimal performance and safety while driving. Signs that indicate your tyres may need attention include:
- Air isn’t staying in, which could be a sign of a slow puncture
- A warning light appears on the dashboard indicating low tyre pressure
- You’ve noticed a difference in your car’s handling
- You’ve recently hit a large pothole or kerb
It’s recommended to get into the habit of checking your tyres regularly, ideally once a fortnight.
Effects of high-pressure and low-pressure tyres
Both low and high tyre pressure can lead to significant issues. Low pressure can cause off-balance driving, increase the risk of punctures, and impact brake performance. On the other hand, high pressure can result in blowouts and uneven tyre wear, compromising your safety on the road.
How to properly check your tyre pressure
Here are some tips for easily checking if your tyres need inflating.
First, ensure the tyres are not too hot, as this can give inaccurate readings.
Next, remove valve caps and use a tyre pressure gauge to measure PSI (pounds per square inch).
Finally, compare the PSI reading to the recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle. You can find the correct tyre pressures in a few locations. The easiest place to spot it is the sill of the driver’s door or in the handbook. Some cars also have the recommended tyre pressure on the inside of the petrol/diesel filler cap, but this varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
How to inflate your tyres at home
If your tyres are low on pressure, you can inflate them at home using a portable air pump:
- Purchase a portable air pump, either electric or manual, and read the instructions on how to use it safely.
- Connect the pump to the tyre valve and add air gradually, checking the pressure intermittently until you reach the recommended PSI. Some electric pumps automatically shut off once the desired pressure has been reached. Simply input the correct pressure and turn the pump on.
How to inflate your tyres at the petrol station
Most petrol stations have facilities for inflating and checking tyre pressure. Here’s how to use them:
- Park within a safe distance of the air pump.
- Add coins or tap your card to activate the machine.
- Select your required tyre pressure using the up and down arrows.
- Remove the dust caps from the tyres and attach the air nozzle.
- The machine will beep when your tyres are at the correct pressure.
How to release air from your car tyres
There are a couple of ways to remove air from your car tyres if they’re overinflated. Let’s take a look at how it works:
- Check your tyres using a standard pump. If they’re overinflated you’ll need to release some air.
- Most car tyres have what’s called a Schrader valve, which makes it easy to remove air from the tyre. Simply use a flat-head screwdriver to press the metal pin inside the valve to release air, before reattaching the pump to re-check the tyre and add extra air if needed.
You can also remove air from your tyres using an automated air machine at a petrol station. To do this, simply:
- Set the gauge to the recommended air pressure and connect it to the tyre valve.
- Release air from the tyre until the gauge reaches the target PSI.
Regular tyre checks and proper inflation are vital for safe and efficient driving. Whether you’re inflating your tyres at home or at the petrol station, following these guidelines will help you maintain optimal tyre pressure and ensure a smooth driving experience. Stay safe on the road by keeping your tyres properly inflated!
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