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LEARNING OBJECTIVES
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Understand the importance of maintaining proper tire pressure and how it affects vehicle safety, performance, and efficiency.
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
Explain the effects of underinflated, overinflated, and properly inflated tires on fuel efficiency, handling, wear, and safety.
Develop a sense of responsibility and awareness regarding the importance of routine tire pressure checks and overall tire maintenance.
Demonstrate how to accurately check and adjust tire pressure using a tire gauge and air pump, following recommended guidelines.
Tires are essential to your vehicle’s performance and safety. Even with a perfect engine and working brakes, underinflated or overinflated tires can cause poor handling, blowouts, and increased fuel costs. Maintaining proper air pressure ensures your tires wear evenly, last longer, and keep you safe on the road (Bridgestone, n.d.).
THE EFFECTS OF TIRE PRESSURE
THE EFFECTS OF TIRE PRESSURE
Understanding what happens when your tire pressure is too low or too high helps you know why regular checks are essential.
UNDERINFLATED TIRE
UNDERINFLATED TIRE
When a tire doesn't have enough air, it flattens more against the road. This increases the surface area and friction.
When a tire doesn't have enough air, it flattens more against the road. This increases the surface area and friction.
EFFECTS
EFFECTS
Increased fuel consumption: The engine works harder, burning more gas.
Tire wear: The outer edges of the tire wear out faster than the center.
Heat buildup: More friction means more heat, which can weaken the tire and lead to a blowout.
Poor handling: The car may feel sluggish, especially when turning.
OVERINFLATED TIRE
OVERINFLATED TIRE
Too much air causes the tire to bulge outward, reducing the amount of rubber touching the road.
Too much air causes the tire to bulge outward, reducing the amount of rubber touching the road.
EFFECTS
EFFECTS
Reduced grip: Less contact area with the road lowers traction, especially in wet conditions.
Uneven wear: The center of the tire wears out faster than the sides.
Bumpy ride: Overinflated tires absorb less shock, making every bump more noticeable.
Risk of damage: More pressure makes the tire more vulnerable to punctures from sharp objects.
PROPERINFLATED TIRE
PROPERINFLATED TIRE
This is the optimal amount of air that the tire needs to perform at its best not too soft, not too firm.
This is the optimal amount of air that the tire needs to perform at its best not too soft, not too firm.
EFFECTS
EFFECTS
Better fuel economy
Even tire wear
Maximum traction and braking
Smooth, safe ride
HOW TO CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
HOW TO CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
WHAT YOU NEED
WHAT YOU NEED
Tire pressure gauge: A simple device that reads air pressure in PSI (pounds per square inch). Available in analog (needle) or digital form.
Air pump/compressor: Found at gas stations or in portable kits.
Owner’s manual or door placard: Tells you the correct pressure for your tires (often 30–35 PSI).
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- WAIT FOR TIRES TO COOL
Air expands when hot, so check pressure when the car hasn’t been driven for at least 3 hours.
2. FIND THE RECOMMENDED PSI
2. FIND THE RECOMMENDED PSI
Check inside the driver’s side door frame, fuel door, glove box, or the owner’s manual.
3. REMOVE THE VALVE CAP
3. REMOVE THE VALVE CAP
Unscrew the small cap from the tire’s valve stem (keep it safe).
4. PRESS THE GAUGE ONTO THE VALVE STEM
4. PRESS THE GAUGE ONTO THE VALVE STEM
Hold it firmly until you hear a brief hiss — then read the number.
5. COMPARE THE READING TO THE RECOMMENDATION
5. COMPARE THE READING TO THE RECOMMENDATION
If below the target, you need to add air.
If above, you can release some by pressing the valve stem gently.
6. ADJUST THE AIR PRESSURE
6. ADJUST THE AIR PRESSURE
Use a gas station air pump or a home compressor to inflate.
After adjusting, recheck the pressure to confirm.
7. REPLACE THE VALVE
7. REPLACE THE VALVE
Always screw the cap back on to keep out dirt and moisture.
WHEN TO CHECK TIRE PRESSURE?
WHEN TO CHECK TIRE PRESSURE?
You don’t need to check your tires every day, but you shouldn’t ignore them either. Air leaks out naturally over time, even without punctures.
Best times to check:
Best times to check:
At least once a month
Before long road trips
After large temperature changes
Cold weather lowers tire pressure.
Hot weather can increase pressure.
TIRE MAINTENANCE TIPS BEYOND PRESSURE
TIRE MAINTENANCE TIPS BEYOND PRESSURE
Proper inflation is just part of good tire care. These extra steps keep your tires safe and long-lasting:
Rotate tires every 5,000–8,000 miles to promote even wear.
Inspect visually for bulges, cracks, or nails.
Check tread depth with the penny test:
Insert a penny into the tread, Lincoln’s head down. If you see all of his head, the tread is too worn.
Replace old tires every 6 years or 60,000–70,000 miles.
Don’t forget the spare tire! Check it occasionally too.
Proper tire pressure and maintenance are key to safety and performance. Learn the right way to care for your tires in this informative video: "Tire Maintenance Done Right."
Proper tire pressure and maintenance are key to safety and performance. Learn the right way to care for your tires in this informative video: "Tire Maintenance Done Right."
Pump Up Your Tire Smarts!
Pump Up Your Tire Smarts!
Think you know how to keep your tires in top shape? Take this quick quiz on tire pressure and maintenance to find out!
“Tires are your car’s foundation, a 5-minute tire pressure check can prevent a flat, save you money, and even protect your life.”
LIST OF SOURCES USED IN THE THIS WEBPAGE
LIST OF SOURCES USED IN THE THIS WEBPAGE
Bridgestone. (n.d.). Tire inflation: The importance of proper tire pressure. Bridgestone Americas. https://www.bridgestoneamericas.com/en/company/safety/maintaining-tires/tire-inflation
Be Tire Smart Canada. (2020, April 29). Tire maintenance done right [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnKe1-HMBxk
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