Tire inflation – checking pressure

Inflation pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.

Cold tires

The tires are considered to be cold when they have the same temperature as the surrounding (ambient) air.

This temperature is normally reached after the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours.

After driving a distance of approximately 1 mile (1.6 km), the tires are considered to be hot. If you have to drive farther than this distance to pump your tire(s), check and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air pressure when you get to the pump.

If checking tire pressure when the tire is hot, never "bleed" or reduce air pressure. The tires are hot from driving and it is normal for pressures to increase above recommended cold pressures. A hot tire at or below recommended cold inflation pressure could be significantly under-inflated.

To check inflation pressure:

Remove the cap from the valve on one tire, then firmly press the tire gauge onto the valve.
Add air to reach the recommended air pressure.
Replace the valve cap.

 Important

  • After inflating the tires, always reinstall the valve cap to help avoid damage to the valve from dirt, gravel, etc.
  • Use plastic valve caps only. Metal caps could corrode and become difficult to remove.
Visually inspect the tires to make sure there are no nails or other objects embedded that could puncture the tire and cause an air leak.
Check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.

Repeat this procedure for each tire, including the spare.

 Note

  • If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the valve. Then recheck the pressure with your tire gauge.
  • Some spare tires require higher inflation pressure than the other tires. Consult the tire inflation pressure table, see Tire inflation – pressure table or see the inflation pressure placard.

Related documents