How to Check Tire Pressure

Proper tire inflation can affect everything from the longevity of your tires to your fuel economy, so It's an important thing to check your tire pressure on a monthly basis. With a low level of difficulty, checking your tire pressure doesn't have to be a chore.

Tools and Materials List

Step By Step Instructions

Additional Resources

Tools & Materials

Safety Glasses Safety Glasses

Gloves Gloves

Tire Pressure Gauge Tire Pressure Gauge

Portable Tire Inflator Portable Tire Inflator

How To Check For Tire Pressure

Remove stem cap and press tire pressure gauge to valve stem

Step 1: Select Pressure Gauge and Measure Pressure

The only thing you’ll need is a tire pressure gauge, and there are three basic types to choose from: the pencil-type, the dial-type and the digital. You can keep a gauge in your glove box for easy access. Some of these gauges come with a check valve or way to release air from the tire, which is important if the tire happens to have too much air pressure.


Once you have your tire pressure gauge, start by turning the tire’s valve stem cap counterclockwise to remove it.


Then push the opening of the gauge firmly onto the valve stem until the hissing stops, making sure that it stays straight.

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Read tire pressure gauge

Step 2: Read Tire Pressure

Compare the reading on the gauge to the recommended tire pressure you found on your driver’s door, owner’s manual, or on the tire.

The pencil-type gauge will reveal a number as the air in your tire causes it to extend. The dial or digital gauge will show you a number on its display.


Do It Right: Always refer to your door jam for proper tire pressure. The tire refers to the max pressure that it can hold. Some vehicles have different tire pressure for the front and rear wheels

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Re inflate tire with a portable tire inflator

Step 3: Fix Low Tire Pressure

If you find your pressure is low, most convenience stores or gas stations will have compressed air available. You might even take your gauge with you the next time you purchase fuel so that you’re checking tire pressure in a place where you can add air if needed.

Be careful if you’re using a truck stop airline – they have much higher pressure, and it’s possible to overinflate your tire. There are also portable tire inflators available that you can store in your vehicle or garage.

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Letting air out of tire if tire pressure is too high

Step 4: Fix High Tire Pressure

If you find your pressure is high, most tire pressure gauges have a pin to allow air to escape the valve stem when depressed. If you gauge does not have this, you can use a flathead screwdriver to depress the metal pin at the center of the valve stem. Just be careful not to bend it. Air will begin to release as you press in on the pin. Then recheck the pressure to ensure the proper amount has been let out.
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Diagram for tire pressure

Step 5: Repeat On All Tires

Once you’ve checked and adjusted all four tires, plus your spare tire, your work is done. You may need a higher-pressure gauge to check the spare, since they usually need to be 60 psi, and most gauges stop at 50.
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Additional Resources

How to Change a Flat Tire

How to Change a Flat Tire

Learn to safely and properly change a flat tire on your vehicle.

How to Safely lift with jack and jack stands

How to Safely Lift & Support Your Vehicle
Knowing how to safely lift and support your vehicle will allow you to perform many other DIY jobs.
How to do a Tire Rotation

How To Rotate Tires
Rotating your vehicle's tires can go a long way in maintaining the life of your tires. Follow these steps to rotate them properly.

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.