The correct tire pressure is vital to ensure safety and good handling, traction and impact absorption, as well as to lower gas usage and minimize wear and tear. The easy steps below will teach you how to check tire pressure and keep them inflated to the correct PSI.
How to Check Tire Pressure: 8 Easy Steps
1. Wait for the Tires to Get Cold
Always check your car’s tire pressure when the tires are cold. Friction when driving causes the tires to heat up and will affect the pressure. Check the pressure first thing in the morning, before you drive anywhere, or wait at least three hours after you’ve parked your car.
2. Check What the Correct Tire Pressure Is
The tire pressure for your Kia is usually on a sticker inside the driver’s door. You will also find tire pressure information in your owner’s manual. The tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch. PSI is the unit in which a pressure gauge will provide the readings. Some vehicles have different pressure levels for the front and the back tires. If this is the case, write down the correct PSI for each tire to avoid confusion.
3. Remove the Air Valve Cap
Choose a tire and remove the valve cap. Put it in a safe place–your pocket will do–so you don’t lose it.
4. Press the Tire Gauge Against the Open Valve Stem
You will hear a hissing sound. Hold the tire gauge in position and press down for one or two seconds until the hissing stops. The tire pressure gauge will give you a reading. If you have a standard tire pressure gauge, a dial or a bar indicates the pressure. Digital gauges will show the pressure on a screen.
5. Write Down the Reading
Write down the reading of the tire you just checked and repeat the process on all the other tires. Also, check the pressure of the spare tire and make sure it is always inflated to the correct pressure level.
6. Replace the Valve Caps
After you checked each tire’s pressure, replace the valve cap. If you need to inflate your car’s tires, wait until after you’ve adjusted the air pressure.
7. Compare the Numbers
Compare the readings you got from the gauge with the correct tire pressure for each of your car’s four tires.
8. Inflate to the Recommended Pressure
You can use your own air compressor, or you can inflate your tires at a gas station. If you prefer to inflate your car’s tires at a gas station, remember the tires are hot, so set the pressure to 4 PSI above the recommended pressure. Check the pressure with your gauge again when you get home and the tires are cold. If the pressure is too high, you can let some of the air out.
Always keep your car’s tires at the recommended pressure levels by checking them at least once a month. Visit Superior Kia today, and we can inspect your tires for wear and tear and make sure they are at the correct pressure levels.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.