In this article, you will be introduced about tire pressure checkups, its alarming importance the signs that will alert you on its necessity, the different places that offer a free tire pressure check-up and even tips for checking it yourself to know when to get a checkup.
Reasons You Should Check Your Tire Pressure:
There are several reasons why you should be checking your tire pressure regularly, such as:
Fuel Economy Increase: Under-inflated tires require more fuel and energy. Tread Wear Decrease: in such a case, they distribute force equally. Decrease in the braking distance: less friction between your tires and the road in case of low tire pressure. Improvement of handling, gas mileage, and car safety: Tires work better and more accurately when their pressure meets the recommended one. Decrease of CO2 emission: it makes the car more efficient when the pressure is right. Diminish risk of blowouts and crashes: If you have under-inflated tires, the sides tend to bend and cause up heat that will likely end with a car blowout or a car crash. Save the tires’ life but, most importantly yours.
Signs to Check on your Tire Pressure:
It is good to do it on a monthly basis because under-or over-inflation cannot be detected easily but here are some signs that should keep you worrying and planning for a checkup:
Squealing noises;Deflated tires;Pressure monitoring system ON
However, you shouldn’t wait for the light of warning to be on to go check up on your tire pressure since many factors can lead to pressure changes like temperature, driving time, etc.
Places that Give Free Tire Pressure Check:
These places are available on a daily basis:
Firestone Complete Auto CareWalmartTires PlusDiscount TirePep BoysGoodyear Auto ServiceJust TiresAAMCO
However, some of them do have some requirements, such as:
ValvolineQuick LaneMeineke
More Places Other Than Tire Stores:
– Oil Change Company: after an oil purchase or change to your car, ask for your free checkup while you’re at it.
– Gas Stations: Most of them have an air compressor that you can freely use.
– Car Dealership Companies: If you’re crossing one, you might as well ask them if they can pump up your tires, and most likely they will accept your request.
How to Check Them?
Check the placard;Unplug the cap on the air faucetCheck the pressure. Compare the pressure to the needed tire’s pressure.
If the air is low, attach the air hose and increase the pressure and follow these guidelines:
– Park the car somewhere in which you can reach all tires;
– Put the hose nozzle in place of the cap removed;
– Release it when done;
– Repeat these steps as needed for each tire.
And lastly, put the cap back on your tire.
Tips for Checking it by Yourself:
For better timing, it is recommendable to:
Check your tires before driving;Know the recommended tire pressure specific to your car;Use reliable gauge;Buy an air compressor;Hold on while pressing on the tire pressure gauge;Check more than once each one. Make sure to do that at the right time because timing is key, in such a case!
Types of Tire Gauge you might want to Keep:
Pencil Type Gauge: usually are very cheap and cost-friendly, though it might be difficult for you to understand their usage. Dial Type Gauge: they cost 20$ approximatively, but they are user-friendly. Digital Type Gauge: these are very easy to use, and which price varies between 10 to 20$.
As mentioned, checking your tire pressure is a very tricky business and a very crucial one. If you do not know how to check them by yourself, or don’t have the listed equipment, you do not have to worry as many places will help you out for free. Now you’re fully aware of what you have to do.
How often should the tires be checked?
It is better if you can do so every month, just to stay on the safe side. However, if the light on your board is on, park your car at the nearest place you can so you can do a direct check and fix the issue.
How can I know the right pressure for the tires?
You can find a paper on the side door’s sticker, in your car’s manual, or near the fuel door.
