Few things are as inconvenient as getting a flat tire. If you don't know how to change a tire, the experience is made much worse by having to wait for someone to come to your assistance.
One way to get a flat tire is when a nail or other sharp object penetrates your tire. In the old days this would cause your tire to go flat within seconds. Today's modern steel belted radial tires usually just develop a slow leak when penetrated.
Even if not penetrated by a sharp object, a tire will gradually lose its air pressure. The way to avoid the inconvenience of getting a flat tire is to check all your tires’ air pressure regularly, including the spare.
Testing Your Tires For the Proper PressureIf you have radial (steel-belted) tires, it is natural to notice a slight bulge in the sidewall even if they are properly inflated. You will not be able to determine this without an accurate tire gauge. You can find one at your local tire dealer or automotive supply store.
There are two main types of gauges:
- One style has a numbered indicator that pops out on the end
- The other type uses a dial to indicate the tire pressure
- Tires should always be checked when they are cold. For best results, the car should be:
- Driven less than a mile, or
- Not driven for an hour or more
- If you must drive somewhere to get air, check and record the air pressure before you leave. When you reach the air pump, you can add the proper amount.
- Remove the cap from your tire valve and quickly push the valve end of the tire gauge onto the stem. You will hear a little “hiss” sound at first. You may need to practice a few times, but if done correctly, you will get an accurate reading of your tire’s air pressure.
- Compare the reading on your gauge with the vehicle’s recommended pressures in your owner’s manual.
- Add enough air to achieve the recommended psi.
- o Do not overfill the tire. Over-inflation can cause the tread to separate from the steel belt. Not only can it cause rapid deflation, but also it can create a bumpy ride. If you add too much air, you can release it by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the valve with a fingernail or the tip of a pen. Re-check the air pressure when you are done to make sure it is correct.
- Do not under-inflate the tire. If you do, the tire could break loose from the wheel. Tire pressure below 24 psi puts you at risk for rapid deflation.
- Replace the cap on your tire valve and put away your tire gauge.
For a brief, step-by-step checklist, download the PDF version.