Tyre Pressure Guide: Finding the Correct PSI for Your Car
Correct tyre pressure is one of the simplest and most overlooked parts of car maintenance. Get it right and your tyres last longer, your car is safer, and you use less fuel. Get it wrong and you risk uneven wear, poor handling, and even a blowout. Here is how to find and maintain the right pressure.
Where to find your correct pressure
The recommended pressures for your car are set by the manufacturer, not the tyre maker. You will usually find them on a sticker inside the driver's door shut, inside the fuel filler flap, or in the owner's handbook. Pressures are given in PSI or bar, and often list different figures for front and rear, and for a fully loaded car.
Always set pressures to the vehicle manufacturer's figures for your specific load, not a generic number.
Why correct pressure matters
- Safety: correct pressure gives the best grip, braking, and steering response
- Tyre life: under or over-inflation causes uneven wear and shortens tyre life
- Fuel economy: under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and fuel use
- Comfort: the right pressure gives a balanced, controlled ride
How often to check
Check your tyre pressures at least once a month and before any long journey. Always check when the tyres are cold (driven less than a couple of miles), as warm tyres read higher and give a false figure. Do not forget the spare, if your car has one.
If you find a tyre repeatedly low on air, it may have a slow puncture and should be inspected by a professional.
Signs your pressure is wrong
Wear on both outer edges of the tread points to under-inflation, while wear concentrated in the centre suggests over-inflation. Pulling to one side, vibration, or a soft, vague feel through the steering can all indicate a pressure problem. If a tyre will not hold its pressure, call a mobile fitter who can inspect, repair, or replace it at your location.
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