How Often Should You Check Tyre Pressure?

If you frequently drive along Ipswich’s Warwick Road, commute on the Ipswich Motorway or take weekend road trips to the Sunshine Coast, staying on top of routine car maintenance is important. While many drivers remember oil changes, tyre checks often get overlooked. A common question our service team hears at Chery Ipswich is: How often should you check tyre pressure?

Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your car, extend the life of your tyres and help maintain safe driving conditions every time you take the wheel.

Why Maintaining Correct Tyre Pressure Matters

Keeping your car tyres at the right pressure can help maintain your vehicle’s performance.

• Improve Handling & Control: Properly inflated tyres allow your vehicle to handle predictably, providing responsive steering and helping maintain braking performance during sudden stops.
• Avoid Under-Inflation Risks: Tyres naturally lose air over time. Running under-inflated tyres increases rolling resistance and can cause premature wear on the outer edges. It can also increase the risk of losing grip on wet Queensland roads.
• Avoid Over-Inflation Risks: Over-inflated tyres result in a harsh ride, reduced surface traction and excessive wear down the centre of the tread.
• Save Money on Fuel: Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which can increase fuel consumption. Keeping your tyres at the correct pressure can help improve fuel economy.

How Often Should You Check Tyre Pressure?

As a general rule, you should check your tyre pressure at least once a month, as well as before embarking on long trips.

You should also check tyre pressure regularly when experiencing major seasonal changes. Sudden changes in temperature can affect tyre pressure, causing the pressure to decrease in colder conditions and increase as temperatures rise. If you frequently navigate rough backroads or drive under heavy towing conditions, check your car tyre pressure fortnightly.

How to Find Your Car’s Recommended PSI

Before using a tyre pressure gauge, you need to know the manufacturer specifications for your vehicle.

• Locate the Tyre Placard: Open your driver's door and inspect the door frame or door pillar to find the official tyre placard.
• Check Your Owner’s Manual: Refer to your owner's manual or vehicle handbook for the factory-specified recommended pressure.
• Note Front vs. Rear Values: The recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) may differ between your front and rear tyres and can change depending on your vehicle’s load.

Step-by-Step: How to Check Your Tyre Pressure Accurately

Checking with your own tyre pressure gauge at home or using equipment at most service stations takes just a few minutes:

1. Check When Cold: Always measure pressure when the tyres are cold. Ideally, check them before driving or after the vehicle has been parked for several hours to get accurate readings.
2. Remove the Valve Cap: Unscrew the cap from the tyre air valve.
3. Take a Reading: Press your tyre pressure gauge firmly onto the air valve until the hissing stops. Read the pressure shown on the gauge.
4. Adjust Air Levels: Use an air compressor or air pump at a local petrol station to inflate your tyres if the pressure is low. If the pressure is too high, release air until it reaches the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
5. Inspect the Spare: If your vehicle has a spare tyre, check its pressure regularly too. This can help ensure it is ready if you need to make a quick swap.

Comprehensive Maintenance at Chery Ipswich

Whether you need a professional tyre pressure check, a routine safety inspection, or logbook maintenance, the service team at Chery Ipswich is here to help. Taking care of your tyres is just one part of keeping your vehicle performing at its best for years to come.

Visit our showroom at Chery Ipswich today or contact our service team to schedule your next check-up!