Maintaining car tires is an important part of vehicle ownership. The recommended pressure is designed to make the wheels last longer, give you better traction on the road, and prevent damage to the rims. Here’s a guide to help you test your tires.

How to Check Car Tire Pressure

For this step, you'll need a pressure gauge. There are two main kinds: analog and digital.

A digital gauge shows the reading on a screen. An analog one has a circular gauge or a narrow stick like a ruler that slides out of the body. 

How far it slides tells you the measurement. For example, if the stick slides out far enough to show the number 35 on the side marked PSI, the pressure reading is 35 PSI.

At least once a month, check the tire pressure when the tires are cold, which means they haven't been driven on within the last three or four hours. Find the tire's valve and unscrew the cap at the end; make sure not to lose it.

Fit the gauge over the end of the valve stem. Press down until the hissing noise from the valve stops.

Check the reading, then write it down and replace the cap. Repeat the process for the other tires.

How to Fill Your Car Tires

If your reading is more than one or two PSI off from the recommended pressure, you need to adjust it. If the pressure is high, let a little air out and check again.

If the pressure is low, you can fill the tire using an air compressor. Fit the nozzle over the valve and squeeze the handle until the gauge shows the ideal tire pressure.

If you have to fill the tires when they're hot--for example, if you don't have an air compressor and need to drive to a gas station to use one--fill the tires to about four PSI over the recommended pressure.

Then, drive straight home, wait for the tires to cool, and check them again. Don't drive anywhere else until you have the correct tire pressure. Also, remember to replace the valve cap after each adjustment.

If your car tires won't stay inflated, they may need leak repairs, or you may need new ones. You can shop for summer tires, winter tires, and all-weather options at M & C Tire in Kalispell, MT. They’ve also served White Fish, Columbia Falls, Big Fork, Lakeside, and Somers since 1979. This family-owned and -operated company is Tire Industry Association certified and offers the highest standard of service. To make an appointment, call (406) 752-9662, or view their products online.