Tire pressure may not seem like a big deal, but it can greatly impact how your vehicle handles, how long your tires last, and even how much fuel you burn. Thankfully, checking your tire pressure is quick, easy, and inexpensive — and learning how to do it correctly can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Why tire pressure matters more than you think

Tires are the only part of your car that touches the road. If the pressure isn’t where it should be, it can result in poor handling, uneven or premature tire wear, and reduced fuel economy. Tire failure is often caused by underinflated tires, while overinflated ones can reduce grip and ride comfort. That’s why automakers provide a specific tire pressure recommendation, not just a general range.

When and how often to check tire pressure

For greater accuracy, check your tire pressure when the car has been parked for several hours or hasn’t been driven more than a mile or two. Heat from driving increases the pressure inside the tire, which can give you a false reading.

A good rule of thumb: check your tires once a month and before any long trip, especially if temperatures have dropped. Tire pressure is known to fall by 1-2 PSI for every 10-degree temperature change.

What you’ll need

• A tire pressure gauge (pencil, dial, or digital — more on those in a moment)

• Access to an air compressor (at a gas station or with a home inflator)

• Your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure — found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual

How to check tire pressure

1. Locate the recommended PSI for both front and rear tires. Most cars fall in the 30-36 PSI range, but check your exact number. Don’t use the “maximum PSI” on the tire sidewall.
2. Park safely on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and let your tires cool if recently driven.
3. Remove the valve cap from the stem and keep it in a safe place.
4. Firmly attach the pressure gauge to the valve. A brief hiss is normal.
5. Compare the gauge reading to your recommended PSI. Repeat for all four tires (and your spare if accessible).

What to do if the pressure is off

• If the pressure is too low, add air in short bursts, then recheck with your gauge until you hit the target

• If the pressure is too high, depress the valve pin to release some air, then re-check

Different gauges you can use

Pencil gauges look like their namesake. Just press it onto the valve, then read the number where the rod extends. Push it back in to reset.

Dial gauges show the pressure with a needle on a round clock-like face. Many include a small air-release button.

Digital gauges display the PSI on an easy-to-read screen.

Regardless of type, always press the gauge straight onto the valve without wiggling. Take two or three readings if unsure, and go with the consistent result.

Need a vehicle to practice this on?

If you’re unfamiliar with tire pressure checks because you’ve never had a car of your own, Credit Acceptance can introduce you to a few of the over 15,000 dealerships we work with. They’re used to working with first-time buyers with little to no credit history. Before you visit, you can get pre-qualified for auto financing through our website.