How to Check Tyre Pressure
How to Check Tyre Pressure
Believe it or not, tyres can actually lose up to 1psi (pounds per square inch) every month. So be on the safe side and check all tyres, including your spare, once a month (or before a long trip). It’s no biggie. Here’s how you do it:
- Purchase a trusted pressure gauge.
- Check your tyres “cold” – before you’ve driven or at least three hours after you’ve driven.
- Insert pressure gauge into the valve stem on your tyre. (The gauge will “pop” out and show a measured number. When you hear a “pssst” sound, that’s air escaping the tyre. The escaping air shouldn’t affect pressure substantially, unless you hold down the air pressure gauge too long.)
- Compare the measured psi to the psi found on the sticker inside the driver’s door of your vehicle or in owner’s manual. DO NOT compare to the psi on your tyre’s sidewall.
- If your psi is above the number, let air out until it matches. If below, add air (or have a BFGoodrich Tyres dealer help you) until it reaches the proper number.
For more information, read below. And to find a dealer near you, use the Dealer Locator at the top of the page.
NITROGEN VERSUS COMPRESSED AIR
It’s pretty common knowledge that most tyres are filled with compressed air. But some tyre dealers have started putting nitrogen in their customers’ tyres. (Nitrogen is simply dry air with the oxygen removed. Air contains nearly 79% nitrogen already. Note: Welcome to science class.) Because nitrogen replaces oxygen, less air can escape your tyres, and your air pressure stays higher for longer. Also, know that nitrogen and compressed air CAN be mixed, if needed.
Unfortunately, there are other possible sources of leaks (tyre/rim interface, valve, valve/rim interface and the wheel), which prevent the guarantee of pressure maintenance for individuals using air or nitrogen inflation. Tyres manufactured by BFGoodrich Tyres are designed to deliver their expected performance when inflated with air or nitrogen, as long as, the user respects the pressures recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle’s placard or by the tyre manufacturer.