How Often Should You Check Your Tyre Pressure? | Maintaining Safe Driving
Regular tyre maintenance is crucial to ensure the safety and efficiency of your vehicle. One of the most important aspects of tyre maintenance is monitoring and adjusting tyre pressure regularly. In this blog, we'll explore how often you should check your tyre pressure to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
Why is Checking Tyre Pressure Important?
Tyres play a critical role in ensuring safe and efficient driving. They provide traction, stability, and control, especially during sudden stops or turns. If your tyres are over or under inflated, it can impact your vehicle's performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. Check out how to improve your fuel efficiency here.
Overinflated tyres have less contact with the road, making them prone to skidding and sliding, especially on wet surfaces. On the other hand, under inflated tyres can wear out more quickly, making them more susceptible to punctures, blowouts, and accidents.
How Often Should You Check Tyre Pressure?
Experts recommend checking tyre pressure at least once a month or before embarking on a long trip. You should also check tyre pressure if you notice any unusual vibration, noise, or handling issues while driving.
If your vehicle has a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), it will alert you when the pressure drops below the recommended level. However, relying solely on the TPMS is not enough, as it can only detect major pressure changes and not subtle variations.
How to Check Tyre Pressure
Checking tyre pressure is a quick and easy process that you can do at home or at a service station. Here's how:
- Look for the recommended tyre pressure in your vehicle owner's manual, on the door jamb, or in the glove box.
- Use a tyre pressure gauge to measure the pressure of each tyre. Press the gauge firmly against the valve stem and hold it steady until you hear a hissing sound.
- Compare the reading with the recommended pressure. If it's too low, inflate the tyre with a tyre pump or air compressor. If it's too high, release some air by pressing the pin inside the valve stem with a small tool.
- Repeat the process for all tyres, including the spare tyre.
Checking tyre pressure regularly is an essential part of vehicle maintenance that can save you time, money, and potentially, your life. By following the recommended guidelines and checking tyre pressure once a month, you can ensure that your tyres are in optimal condition, providing you with a safe and smooth driving experience. So, take the time to check your tyre pressure regularly and drive with confidence!
