Checking Tire Pressure

How often should you check the tire pressure on your car? If you’re not sure, read on…

Correct tire pressure is important for the safety, comfort, and economy of your car. So how often should you check the pressure of the tires on your car? That depends mainly on the season, with a few other considerations you should always keep in mind.

During Warm Weather

During warm weather you should check tire pressure at least once a month. But if the weather changes or if any other considerations become important, then you should check tire pressure at least once a week.

During Cold Weather

During cold weather, and particularly if there is snow or ice in your area, you should check tire pressure at least once a week. If snow and ice affect the roads in your area, you should visit your nearest Test Store #3 store and seek advice on special tires and equipment that are designed to provide grip in slippery conditions.

When the Weather Changes

When you notice a change in the weather, you should check the pressure of the tires on your car. If it is noticeably warmer now than when you last checked tire pressure, your tires may now be over-inflated. Conversely, if it is noticeably cooler now than when you last checked tire pressure, your tires may now be under-inflated.

Other Considerations

If you are driving and you hit a curb or run over debris on the road, you may have damaged your tires. Should you have any reason to believe that your tires may have suffered damage, you must visually check the tires each day and properly check tire pressure each week. Driving with damaged tires is dangerous and illegal, which makes the following guideline one of great importance: if in doubt, do not drive your car. Instead, visit your nearest Test Store #3 store and seek advice on how you can properly check your tires, which may involve purchasing a tire gauge.

If you have not driven your car for more than two weeks, you should visually check the tires before driving again. If any of the tires look flat, do not drive the car. Even if all the tires look okay, you should check their pressure at the first available service station as they may still be under-inflated.

When you buy a new car, or when you borrow or hire another car, you should check tire pressure as soon as possible. Keep in mind that you are ultimately responsible for the road-worthiness of any vehicle you drive, so you must never assume that the driver before you has checked its tires.

Finally, don’t forget to check the pressure and condition of your spare tire at least once every six months.