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The best way to avoid expensive tire repair is to perform regular tire maintenance, including checking and filling the pressure every time you refuel. It only takes five or ten minutes and could prevent uneven wear, improve your fuel economy, and extend the life of your tires. If you don't know how to perform this task, below are the steps to check and fill tire pressure.

Avoid Tire Repair with Regular Maintenance

1. Find Recommended Tire Pressuretire repair

Your vehicle manufacturer lists the recommended tire pressure as pounds per square inch (psi) in the owner's manual. If this is not available, it should also be listed on the inside of the driver's-side doorjamb. For most cars, the pressure should be between 30 and 40 psi. Note that the number listed on the tire itself is not the recommended psi; it is the maximum safe inflation of the tire. 

2. Test Pressure

To test the pressure, you need a reliable pressure gauge, which you can find at any auto parts store and many gas stations. Remove the cap on the valve stem, fit the mouth of the gauge around the valve stem, and press firmly. If you've done it correctly, you'll briefly hear the air escaping before the gauge dial spins (if it's a dial gauge) or the meter shoots out of the gauge bottom (if it's a stick gauge). 

3. Adjust Pressure

Read the gauge and compare it to the recommended tire pressure. If it is too high, release some of the air by pressing the center pin of the valve stem. If it is too low, add additional pressure using a gas station air pump or a home air compressor. Add and release only a little air at a time—using the gauge to check—until you reach the proper pressure. Do this for each tire and remember to replace the valve stem caps. 



For fast, reliable tire repair, contact G & J Auto Center, an experienced tire dealer and auto repair shop in Columbia, MO.  They have served customers in and around Boone County for more than 20 years and have developed a reputation for quality materials and expert service. In addition to tire repair, they also offer affordable oil changes, wheel alignments, brake repair, and more. Visit their website to message them online or call (573) 474-5819 to arrange a consultation.

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