It's important for drivers in the Hagerstown and Winchester area to keep their tires properly inflated. Having a tire that's inflated correctly means a safer and smoother ride, as well as better fuel efficiency and more control of your vehicle. Massey Hyundai is proud to provide this guide on checking your own tire pressure.
PSI
First, know the ideal air pressure for your tire. PSI, or pounds per square inch, can be measured by the notches on a tire air pressure gauge. To check what your tire's ideal PSI is, you may need to check your owner's manual or look at the side of your tire. Smaller vehicles such as compact cars usually have PSI between 30 and 40, while larger vehicles such as luxury cars usually have PSI around 45. High-performance cars or cars built for serious off-roading may have different PSI requirements. You should make sure that your tires all are inflated to the same PSI for better control and safety.
Check the Tires
You should check the tires when they're cold--that is, when you haven't driven on them for at least three hours. Unscrew your tire's valve stem (that's the air nozzle on the tire's side) and fit the air pressure gauge evenly over the valve stem. Some air will escape, but once it's on securely your gauge will get a reading. If your tires are overinflated or underinflated by more than five PSI, you should adjust the air in them as quickly as possible.
Add the Air
Once you've determined which tires need air, fit the nozzle of the air hose onto the valve stem of the tire. The air hose will leak air at first, but as soon as it's properly applied the leaking will stop. You may have to squeeze a handle on the air hose to release the air. Overinflating your tire is very dangerous and can cause leaks or explosions, so use small bursts of air and check your tire's pressure frequently.
Massey Hyundai Can Help
Still need help learning how to check your tire pressure, or need air in your tires? Come to Massey Hyundai today and we'll help you out! You can call us at (301) 739-6756 or stop by at 1706 Massey Blvd, Hagerstown.
