How to Check and Maintain Your Car Tyre Pressure

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about car tyre pressure, including how to check it, the importance of correct tyre inflation, the effects of low tyre pressure, and car tyre maintenance tips to keep you safe on the road.

Why is Correct Tyre Pressure Important?

Tyre pressure affects several aspects of your driving experience. Here are some key reasons why maintaining the right pressure is crucial:

1. Improved Safety

Properly inflated tyres provide better traction and handling, reducing the risk of accidents. Underinflated or overinflated tyres can cause instability, making it harder to control the vehicle, especially at high speeds or in wet conditions.

2. Better Fuel Efficiency

Underinflated tyres create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Maintaining the correct tyre pressure can help improve fuel economy and save money on fuel costs.

3. Longer Tyre Lifespan

Overinflated or underinflated tyres wear out unevenly, leading to premature replacements. Keeping your tyres properly inflated ensures even tread wear and extends their lifespan.

4. Enhanced Driving Comfort

Tyres that are not inflated to the correct pressure can lead to a rough and uncomfortable ride. Proper tyre pressure absorbs road impact better, resulting in a smoother driving experience.

5. Prevention of Blowouts

Low tyre pressure can cause excessive heat buildup, increasing the risk of tyre blowouts. A blowout at high speed can be dangerous and lead to loss of vehicle control.

How to Check Your Car Tyre Pressure

Regularly checking your tyre pressure ensures your tyres remain in top condition. Follow these steps to check your tyre pressure correctly:

1. Get a Reliable Tyre Pressure Gauge

A digital or analog tyre pressure gauge is an affordable and useful tool for checking your tyre pressure. Many fuel stations in Nigeria have air pumps with built-in gauges, but having your own gauge allows you to check pressure anytime.

2. Know Your Recommended Tyre Pressure

Check your car owner’s manual or the sticker on the driver’s side door frame to find the recommended tyre pressure (measured in PSI or kPa). Different vehicles have different tyre pressure requirements.

3. Check the Pressure When Tyres Are Cold

Tyre pressure increases when the tyres are hot from driving. For accurate readings, check the pressure when the tyres are cold (before driving or after the car has been parked for a few hours).

4. Remove the Valve Cap and Attach the Gauge

Unscrew the valve cap on the tyre and firmly press the pressure gauge onto the valve stem. The gauge will display the current tyre pressure reading.

5. Compare With Recommended Pressure

Compare the reading from the gauge with the recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle. If the pressure is too low, add air. If it’s too high, release some air until it reaches the correct level.

6. Reattach the Valve Cap

After adjusting the pressure, securely place the valve cap back on to prevent dirt and moisture from entering.

Effects of Low Tyre Pressure

Driving with low tyre pressure can have several negative effects on your vehicle and overall driving experience:

1. Reduced Fuel Efficiency

Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, requiring more energy to move the vehicle, which leads to higher fuel consumption.

2. Increased Tyre Wear

Low pressure causes uneven tyre wear, particularly on the edges of the tread, reducing tyre lifespan and increasing replacement costs.

3. Poor Handling and Stability

A vehicle with low tyre pressure responds poorly to steering and braking, making it harder to control, especially in emergency situations.

4. Higher Risk of Blowouts

Low pressure increases friction and heat buildup, which can weaken the tyre structure and cause blowouts, potentially leading to accidents.

5. Damage to Suspension Components

Improper tyre pressure can affect the vehicle’s suspension, causing stress on components such as shocks and struts, leading to costly repairs.

Car Tyre Maintenance Tips

To keep your tyres in top condition, follow these maintenance tips:

1. Check Tyre Pressure Weekly

Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure at least once a week, especially before long trips or carrying heavy loads.

2. Inspect for Damage

Regularly check your tyres for signs of wear, cuts, punctures, or bulges. Damaged tyres should be replaced immediately to avoid safety risks.

3. Rotate Your Tyres Regularly

Rotating your tyres every 5,000–8,000 km ensures even wear and extends their lifespan.

4. Align and Balance Your Wheels

Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tyres can cause uneven wear and poor handling. Have your wheels aligned and balanced by a professional when necessary.

5. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

Excessive weight puts extra strain on your tyres, increasing the risk of overheating and blowouts. Stick to your vehicle’s recommended load capacity.

6. Store Spare Tyres Properly

Ensure your spare tyre is in good condition and properly inflated. Check it periodically to ensure it’s ready for use in an emergency.