How to Add Air to Your Tires
Adding air to your tires can be intimidating, but the process is no different from inflating an air mattress, bouncy castle, or beach ball. As you air up your tires, staying within the recommended pressure ratings, typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), is vital. Under normal driving conditions, you shouldn't need to air up your tires more than once or twice yearly.
How to Check Tire Pressure
You can check your tire pressure using a handheld tire pressure gauge, your vehicle's built-in tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), or by visiting a local tire shop for a free pressure check. Checking your car's tire pressures is the first step in determining whether you need to add air. Although your tires may look low visually, the air pressure within them has the final say about proper inflation.
- Tire pressure gauge: You can use a tire pressure gauge placed on the tire valve to determine exact pressures. These gauges range from basic push-on stick models to screw-on electronic versions.
- Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) menu: Newer vehicles incorporate TPMS sensors in the wheel to accurately read the tire's pressure. You can access this information from your driver's display menu.
- Local tire shop: If you prefer not to check your tire pressure yourself, many tire shops offer a free pressure check and have the equipment ready to adjust your pressure if it's low or too high.
Most TPMS warning lights activate when your tire's pressure drops 25% below the recommended level. This light looks like a "U" shape with an exclamation point. Most passenger tire pressures range from 32 to 35 PSI, but always follow your manufacturer's recommended tire inflation ratings for safety.
Finding Your Car's Recommended Tire Pressure Ratings
Your vehicle's recommended tire pressure is listed in your owner's manual and on the sticker inside the driver's door jamb. Before or after checking what PSI your tires are currently inflated to, compare those numbers to these recommended ratings. Note that the pressures listed assume you're running the exact tire size that was installed at the factory.
You may notice that the tire pressures listed for your vehicle are different for the front and rear tires. This difference is common and simply reflects the manufacturer's specifications for your car.
The PSI rating printed on the tire sidewall indicates the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the target pressure. Do not inflate your tires to this number, as you risk overinflating the tire and a potential blowout. Tire failure while parked is one thing, but it could be dangerous at speed.
How Often Should You Check Tire Pressure
Make a habit of checking your tire pressure at least once a month or when the seasons change. Barometric pressure fluctuates with changing weather patterns, but your tires will typically stay within a PSI or two unless there's a significant rise or drop in temperature. Do a quick visual inspection of your tires before you get behind the wheel, and keep an eye on them like you would your engine oil and other fluid levels.
How to Add Air to Your Tires
To add air to your tires, remove the valve cap, press an air compressor chuck firmly onto the valve, fill in short bursts, and check the pressure until you reach the recommended PSI. Ideally, you want to add air when your tires haven't had much contact with the road yet, also known as being "cold." However, if the pressure is low, add air regardless and account for a few PSI of difference when the tires cool down.
Below are the steps for adding air to your car's tires, whether you use an air compressor at a gas station or one at home:
- Remove the valve cap by unscrewing it and place it in your pocket.
- Place the air compressor chuck firmly on the valve, ensuring a tight seal. You should hear the air filling the tire, not hissing or whining as it escapes.
- After about 30 seconds, remove the air chuck and check the tire pressure. If the machine displays the air pressure as you go, aim for 1 to 2 PSI over the recommended rating to account for air loss when you remove the chuck.
- When you've reached the recommended PSI rating, screw the valve cap back on.
- Repeat the process for the remaining three tires and your spare tire (if applicable).
- Drive a few miles and then recheck the pressure to confirm there are no leaks.
You don't have to be exact when inflating your tires. A PSI or two of difference doesn't pose a safety risk. If the gauge reads off by more than 3 PSI in either direction, adjust the pressure accordingly by adding or releasing air.
A Note About Nitrogen
You may have encountered the concept of filling car tires with nitrogen instead of ambient air. If you're curious about the benefits of nitrogen, most tire shops can answer any questions you may have. The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association also provides information on nitrogen use in passenger vehicle tires.
The Effects of Low or High Tire Pressure
Low or high tire pressures can have a noticeable effect on your vehicle's handling and tire life. Tire tread patterns are designed for full contact with the road, but incorrect inflation can reduce that contact area and compromise performance. Under-inflating your tires causes them to wear more on the outer shoulders, which affects handling and shortens tread life.
Over-inflating your tires slightly isn't usually a concern, but too much pressure causes premature wear on the center of the tread. Over-inflated tires are also more prone to blowouts, especially if you hit a pothole, curb, or road debris.
Maintain Proper Tire Inflation for Safer Driving
Inflating your tires to the proper PSI can improve handling, extend tire life, and help prevent blowouts. Monitoring your tire pressure takes only a few minutes but can provide long-term peace of mind. The next time your low tire pressure light comes on, you'll know exactly what to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you add air to your tires?
Under normal driving conditions, you should only need to add air to your tires once or twice a year. Check your tire pressure at least once a month or whenever temperatures shift significantly, and add air if the reading drops more than 3 PSI below your vehicle's recommended rating.
What PSI should my tires be?
Most passenger vehicle tires run between 32 and 35 PSI, but you should always follow the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver's door jamb or in your owner's manual. The number printed on the tire sidewall is the maximum pressure, not the target.
Can you put air in a tire at a gas station?
Yes. Most gas stations have an air compressor you can use. Remove the valve cap, press the air chuck firmly onto the valve, fill in short bursts, and check the pressure between each burst until you reach the recommended PSI.
If your vehicle has been in a collision or you've noticed uneven tire wear after an impact, the alignment or suspension may need attention. Find a Crash Champions location near you to have your vehicle inspected.
The information in this article is provided for educational purposes and may not reflect every situation. While we strive for accuracy, this content is general guidance, not a substitute for visiting your local collision repair provider. For questions about your specific vehicle or repair needs, contact your local Crash Champions team.
