So you see that your tire pressure warning light has lit up on the dashboard (you know, the light with the exclamation point) and that’s the point when you start googling for a tire pressure handbook, right? The majority of us recognize how easy it is to disregard this alert because of the frustration with finding a service station with a functioning air compressor to inflate your tires. However the reality is, that frustration pales in comparison to a blow-out on the highway because you decided to ignore the warning! There are a lot of reasons for reduced tire pressure: weather condition changes, normal wear and tear, or a slow leak in your tire. Whatever the reason might be, it is essential to get it looked into as soon as possible. However, if you aren’t sure just how to tackle checking your tire pressure, don’t fret. Team Gillman Mazda is here to help with this helpful tire pressure guidebook.
What is Tire Pressure?
“Cold inflation pressure is the inflation pressure of tires before the car is driven and the tires warmed up. Recommended cold inflation pressure is displayed on the owner’s manual and on the placard (or sticker) attached to the vehicle door edge, pillar, glove box door or fuel filler flap. Drivers are encouraged to make sure their tires are adequately inflated, as suboptimal tire pressure can greatly reduce fuel economy, increase emissions, increased wear on the edges of the tire surface, and can lead to premature failure of the tire. Excessive pressure, on the other hand, may lead to impact-breaks, decrease braking performance, and cause uneven wear (i.e., greater wear on the center part of the tire surface).”
The first thing you’ll want to do in inspecting your tire’s air pressure is to make certain the tires are “cold” meaning they haven’t been driven on for about one hour. This will provide you with the most accurate PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch) reading.
Second, find the auto maker’s recommended PSI. This can be located in the owner’s manual or stamped inside the driver’s side door. Jot down the PSI requirements and head to your nearest air pump. You can usually locate one at most gas stations, tire shops, or car washes. A single use will probably cost about $0.50 to $2.00.
Third, check the tire pressure with a PSI gauge. These gauges can be found at any retail store’s automotive department, an auto parts store, or in some cases they are already installed on the air pumps themselves. Simply fill the tire or tires to the specified PSI level then check the PSI one last time and you’re ready to roll!
The most effective routine is to check your tire pressure routinely by the month. In most modern-day cars, you can scan the control panel settings for a digital reading of the PSI on all the tires. The computer-generated estimate, occasionally, can become slightly off. Therefore, the best technique is to use a PSI gauge.
Chillier climates can impact PSI too. According to Goodyear, for every 10 degrees the temperature level goes down, your tire pressure can decrease by 1-2 pounds and vice versa for temperature increases.
Maintaining your car, truck, or SUV’s tires is important for automotive performance, safety, and fuel economy. It is what literally keeps your car rolling. A flat tire or a blowout on the road is not just a challenge to take care of but it’s also very dangerous if there is not an emergency lane readily available. Treat your car to some preventative maintenance and it will take care of you and your family for many smooth riding roads to come.
Are you preoccupied about your tire pressure, but not sure what to do? Don’t fret. Our factory-certified Mazda mechanics are here to assist. Stop by our service center today and allow us to have a look at your wheels. Don’t wait. The best way to handle low tire pressure is always to assess and fix any issues early, when there’s still air pressure in your tire.
Tire Pressure Guide | Team Gillman Mazda
You don't have any saved vehicles!
Look for this link on your favorites:
Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.
18010 I-45 • Houston, TX 77090
Get DirectionsOpen Today! Sales: 9am-8pm
Open Today! Service: 7am-6pm
Open Today! Parts: 7am-6pm