DIY: Tyre Pressure Monitoring – How do you know if your tyres are inflated right?

By NYC 16 hours ago

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Tyres play a very important role whenever we are on the road, and I’m sure many of us are aware of that. But replacing worn out tires isn’t the only routine service that should be noted, as maintaining the proper amount of air pressure in them also dictates its performance levels.

The air pressure in the tyres help shape and determine the ‘footprint’ of a tyre on the road. An under-inflated tyre has higher chances of loosing contact in the middle because most of the vehicle’s weight is resting upon the tyre walls. Heavier steering feel, straying, and wobbly handling while cornering are typical signs suggesting it needs more air.
Another old fashion way of identifying such a case is in the tyre wall’s amount of ‘bulging’ at the bottom of the wheel. However looks can be deceiving especially when

• the tyre is made from a softer rubber compound
• the tyre isn’t resting on a flat surface
• the tyre isn’t facing perfectly straight

On the other hand, over inflation might fill in so much air that it raises the sides of the tyres with just the middle portion maintaning contact with the road surface. While some motorists claim it helps lighten the steering, it is very dangerous considering that you have less road-contact, especially under demanding situations like hard cornering, braking and wet or slippery roads. Passenger comfort might also be compromised by a bumpier ride.
Apart from safety, a tyre with improper air pressure will also wear out faster. This would incur premature replacement whilst applying more stress on the suspension bushes and shock absorbers.
So how do we know what’s the correct amount of tyre pressure to maintain? Because tyre pressures vary according to a vehicle’s weight, usage and size used, most cars manufacturers already have recommended pressures in the owner’s manual and a printed guide. The latter is usually in the form of a label or plate located on the B-pillar’s (the pillar which has the front passengers’ seat belt mounted to) bottom portion.

Tire pressure guide vs tire wall specification – Cars

Unless the tyre used is no longer of the original size, all you need to do is refer its size against the guide for the correct pressure to pump. If otherwise, a tyre service personnel should be able to provide you with the proper measurement.

Tire Pressure Guide vs tire specifications for motorbikes

Picture fro National.co.uk