Low tire pressure can reduce your gas mileage and even put you at risk on the road. In fact, you can end up with a blowout if your tires don’t have enough air in them. That’s why it’s so important to check your tire pressure every month and before you take a long trip. Checking your tire pressure is a cinch when you know what to do.
Prepare to Check Your Tire Pressure
First, you need to prepare yourself to check your tire pressure. Get a trusted gauge, and let your tires cool off before checking them. Your car should be parked and turned off for a minimum of three hours before checking the pressure.
Use the Tire Pressure Gauge
Find the valve system on your tire and insert the tire gauge into it. Digital gauges provide a reading immediately. Pencil-style gauges take a bit more time. The gauge will actually pop out once it has the reading. Then, you can look at it and see the measured number.
If you’re using a pencil gauge, you might notice a “pssst” sound during the reading. That’s air leaving the tire. That’s not a problem as long as you get your reading within the next few seconds. However, if it takes too long to get the reading, take the gauge out before too much air escapes, and try again.
Compare the PSI
Next, you need to compare the PSI on the gauge to the PSI that’s located in your owner’s manual or on the sticker inside of the vehicle’s driver side door. Some people compare the PSI to that on the tire, but that’s a mistake. You need to make sure the PSI matches the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
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Match the PSI
Your PSI might be higher than it’s supposed to be. If that’s the case, let out some air. Continue to do that until it matches the recommended PSI.
What if it’s not high enough? If that’s the case, you’ll need to add some air. Add the correct amount of air so the PSI matches.
If you don’t feel comfortable filling your tires yourself, the service department at Lee Nissan Fort Walton Beach in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, can help. We can also help you pick out a new Nissan with brand-new tires. Then, you can start with a clean slate and check your tires every month.
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