How do I check the tire pressure in my car? That's how it's done!

Thomas Wachsmuth 25 January 2024 Car repair & tuning guide

Reading time 3 Min.

The control of the Tire pressure is an important part of vehicle maintenance that has a significant impact on road safety and can reduce fuel consumption. Drivers should therefore all two to four weeks check the air pressure of the tires. These are often available at gas stations Measuring devices including compressor. The optimal air pressure varies depending on the vehicle type, model, season and load condition. At Caravan for example, the recommended pressure is between 3,5 and 4,5 bar and depends on various factors, such as the type of tire, the maximum permissible air pressure of the tire, the load index and the actual and permissible total weight of the caravan.

Check the tire pressure!

To measure tire pressure, do the following:
Valve cap weight lose: Start by unscrewing the tire's valve cap.
Attach measuring device: Place the gauge on the valve and hold it firmly. You will hear a short hissing sound as some air first escapes.
Read pressure: The device now displays the current tire pressure.
Adjust pressure: If necessary, correct the air pressure with the compressor. Use the plus button to increase and the minus button to decrease the pressure.
Screw the valve cap back on: Finally, screw the valve cap back on.
It is important, the air pressure on all tires to measure and also the pressure in spare to control.

Frequently asked questions on the topic:

Optimal tire pressure for summer tires: This is usually between 2 and 3 bar, depending on tire type and vehicle load.
Air pressure in winter tires: In the Winter you should change the pressure 0,2 to 0,3 bar increase because low temperatures lower the air pressure.
Tire pressure for motorcycles: Here there is usually a pressure of 2,2 to 2,5 bar on the front tire and 2,5 to 2,9 bar on the rear tire empfohlen.

Measuring tire pressure is a simple but essential maintenance measure that not only increases your safety but also contributes to the economy of your vehicle. By regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressure, you can ensure that your vehicle is always optimally adapted to the road conditions.

Why is tire pressure important?

Correct tire pressure is crucial for the Safety in traffic and contributes to the to reduce fuel consumption. Regular checking, at least every two to four weeks, is recommended.

Where can I find tire pressure information?

On a sticker in the glove compartment.
On the B-pillar with the driver's door open.
On the inside of the tank cap.
In the instruction manual.
In tire pressure tables from manufacturers on the Internet.

What happens if tire pressure is incorrect?

Too high pressure: Less road contact, faster wear in the center of the tread, less ride comfort.
Pressure too low: Higher fuel consumption, longer braking distances, faster wear, risk of a tire blowout.

Where can you measure tire pressure?

In addition to gas stations also offer digital or analog tire pressure gauges a way to check, available in specialist shops or online.

Correct tire pressure on the motorhome

For motorhomes, tire pressure depends on the axle load. For most models it is between 4,0 and 6,0 bar. The best way to determine the ideal pressure is to measure the axle load.

Tire pressure monitoring systems

Since 2014, newly registered cars and some mobile homes in the EU have had to have one Tire pressure control system (TPMS) be equipped. This warns when pressure drops and enables a timely check.

The following note is essential: For safety reasons, tuningblog recommends all repair, inspection and maintenance work exclusively to be carried out in a specialist workshop! Although our information is summarized to the best of our knowledge and belief, we cannot assume any liability for the content. All information is therefore "without guarantee".

That wasn't it yet!

In our Auto Repair Category you will find advice and instructions on common vehicle defects, repairs and the installation of accessories/tuning parts.