How to check your tire pressure, by Alberta Motor Association on YouTube. 2 min 15 s.
- Video length
- 2 min 15 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Find the recommended pressure on the sticker inside the driver's door frame. Check whether the front and rear tires have different numbers.
Unscrew the cap from the valve stem on the first tire and keep it somewhere safe so it does not get lost.
Press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem. Read the number on the gauge, then compare it with the recommended pressure.
If the tire is low, push the air compressor nozzle onto the valve stem and squeeze the lever. You should hear air going in.
Check the pressure again after a short burst of air. Repeat until the gauge reads the recommended number, checking often so you do not overfill.
If the tire has too much air, press the pin in the middle of the valve stem with the tip of the gauge to let some out, then recheck.
Screw the cap back on and repeat the gauge check and top-up on the other three tires.
Check the spare tire too, since it is easy to forget until you need it.
Tips and common mistakes
Check tires when they are cold, before driving far, because warm tires read higher than the true pressure.
Front and rear tires often have different recommended pressures, so read the sticker carefully.
It is fine to add normal air to a nitrogen-filled tire.
Do not trust a gauge that reads zero when you press it or looks damaged. Replace it.
Questions
Where do I find the correct tire pressure for my car?
Look for the manufacturer's sticker inside the driver's door frame. It lists the recommended pressure for the front, rear and spare tires.
Do I have to use a compressor at a gas station?
No. Many gas stations have air pumps, though some charge a small fee. Some motor association centres offer free air to members.
How often should I check my tire pressure?
Check at least once a month and before long trips. Tires slowly lose air over time, and cold weather lowers pressure further.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
