Tire Pressure Basics

Understanding tire pressure, PSI, and when to get qualified help — no mechanic experience required.

This guide is general awareness only. Vehicle requirements vary. Follow your vehicle owner's manual and get qualified help for damaged tires, repeated air loss, warning lights, or unsafe driving conditions.

Tire pressure can feel confusing because tires, door stickers, warning lights, and gauges all show different information. Start with the sticker or owner's manual — that is the right number for your specific vehicle.

What Tire Pressure Means

Tire pressure is the amount of air inside your tire. It is measured in PSI — pounds per square inch. The correct PSI for your vehicle is usually found on:

•The sticker on the inside of the driver door or door frame
•The vehicle owner's manual

Important: The large number printed on the tire's sidewall is the maximum pressure the tire can hold — not the recommended everyday pressure. Use the door sticker or owner's manual number, not the sidewall number.

Why Tire Pressure Matters

•Safer handling and steering
•More even tire wear over time
•Better fuel efficiency
•Lower risk of tire problems on the road
•More comfortable ride

Basic Safe Checks

•Check the driver door sticker or owner's manual for your vehicle's recommended PSI
•Use a tire pressure gauge — inexpensive ones work fine
•Check tires when the vehicle has been sitting — cold tires give more accurate readings
•Add air slowly in short bursts, then recheck
•Replace the valve cap after checking or adding air
•Do not ignore a tire that keeps losing air repeatedly

Warning Signs to Take Seriously

•Tire looks visibly low or flat
•Tire pressure warning light stays on after filling
•One tire keeps losing air repeatedly
•Cracks, bulges, nails, screws, or visible damage on the tire
•Vehicle pulls to one side while driving
•Unusual vibration while driving

Know When to Call a Pro

Get qualified help for any of these situations:

▸Tire keeps losing air repeatedly
▸Bulges, cracks, or exposed cords visible on tire
▸Nail, screw, or debris embedded in tire
▸Tire pressure warning light will not clear
▸You are unsure what PSI is correct for your vehicle
▸Vehicle feels unsafe or unstable to drive

See full safety guide →

Tire Pressure Basics Checklist

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Check driver door sticker or owner's manual for recommended PSI

Let vehicle sit before checking — cold tires read more accurately

Use a tire pressure gauge on each tire

Add air slowly if needed

Recheck pressure after adding air

Replace valve cap securely

Visually inspect tires for damage, bulges, or nails

Note if any tire keeps losing air repeatedly

Check tire pressure warning light — is it on or flashing?

Get qualified help for any damage, repeated loss, or unsafe conditions