Tyres are one of the most important components of a vehicle. They provide traction, stability, and comfort while driving. However, many vehicle owners neglect the maintenance of their tyres and do not check their tyre pressure regularly. Tyre pressure is the amount of air that has been pumped into the tyre. It is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and is usually indicated on the sidewall of the tyre. Tyre pressure affects the performance, safety, and durability of the tyres and the vehicle.
Why is Tyre Pressure Important?
Tyre pressure is important for several reasons:
- It affects the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Under-inflated tyres increase the rolling resistance and reduce the mileage. Over-inflated tyres reduce the contact area and increase the wear and tear.
- It affects the handling and braking of the vehicle. Under-inflated tyres reduce the grip and stability and increase the braking distance. Over-inflated tyres reduce the cushioning and comfort and increase the risk of skidding and bursting.
- It affects the life span of the tyres. Under-inflated tyres cause uneven wear and tear and increase the chances of punctures and blowouts. Over-inflated tyres cause excessive wear and tear and reduce the shock absorption.
How to Check Tyre Pressure?
To check tyre pressure, you need a tyre pressure gauge and an air compressor. You can buy these tools online or at any automotive store. You can also visit any petrol pump or service station that has these facilities. To check tyre pressure, follow these steps:
- Park your vehicle on a level ground and switch off the engine.
- Locate the valve stem on each tyre and remove the valve cap.
- Attach the tyre pressure gauge to the valve stem and press firmly until you hear a hissing sound.
- Read the tyre pressure on the gauge and compare it with the recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle.
- If the tyre pressure is lower than recommended, attach the air compressor to the valve stem and inflate the tyre until you reach the desired pressure.
- If the tyre pressure is higher than recommended, press the release button on the gauge or compressor to let out some air until you reach the desired pressure.
- Repeat these steps for all four tyres and don’t forget to replace the valve caps.
How Often to Check Tyre Pressure?
You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month or before any long trip. You should also check your tyre pressure when there is a change in temperature or altitude, as these factors affect the air pressure inside the tyres. You should always check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold, i.e., before driving or at least three hours after driving.
What is the Recommended Tyre Pressure for Indian Vehicles?
The recommended tyre pressure for Indian vehicles depends on various factors such as vehicle type, load, speed, road condition, etc. The recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle is usually mentioned in your owner’s manual, on a sticker inside your driver’s door, or on a placard near your fuel tank cap. However, if you cannot find this information, you can refer to our table below that lists some common vehicle types, tyre sizes, and recommended tyre pressures in PSI units.
| Vehicle Type | Tyre Size | Recommended Tyre Pressure (PSI) |
|---|---|---|
| Hatchback | 155/80 R13 | 30 (Front) / 33 (Rear) |
| Sedan | 185/65 R15 | 32 (Front) / 35 (Rear) |
| SUV | 215/65 R16 | 35 (Front) / 38 (Rear) |
| Bike | 100/90 R17 | 29 (Front) / 33 (Rear) |
Summary
Tyre pressure is the amount of air that has been pumped into the tyre. It is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and is usually indicated on the sidewall of the tyre. Tyre pressure affects the performance, safety, and durability of the tyres and the vehicle. You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month or before any long trip using a tyre pressure gauge and an air compressor. You should always check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold and adjust it according to the recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle. The recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle is usually mentioned in your owner’s manual, on a sticker inside your driver’s door, or on a placard near your fuel tank cap. However, if you cannot find this information, you can refer to our table above that lists some common vehicle types, tyre sizes, and recommended tyre pressures in PSI units.
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