Everything You Need to Know About Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressure refers to the amount of air inside your car’s tyres and is usually measured in PSI (pounds per square inch) or bar.
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is one of the simplest yet most important aspects of vehicle maintenance, and it plays a crucial role in how your car performs on the road.
What Does Tyre Pressure Mean?
Every tyre needs a specific amount of air to support the weight of your vehicle and keep it stable while driving. Too little or too much air can affect how the tyre makes contact with the road, which directly impacts safety, comfort, and efficiency. Manufacturers set recommended tyre pressure levels based on extensive testing to ensure the best balance of performance and safety.
At Advance Motors, we often see vehicles across Slough, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Watford, and Romford where simple tyre pressure checks could have prevented avoidable issues. Understanding what tyre pressure is and why it matters is the first step toward safer, more efficient driving.
Why Does Tyre Pressure Matter?
Keeping your tyres inflated to the correct pressure offers several key benefits:
Safety
Correct tyre pressure helps maintain proper grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Underinflated or overinflated tyres can increase the risk of skidding or losing control.
Vehicle Handling
When your tyres are correctly inflated, your car responds more predictably to steering inputs. This is particularly important when cornering, changing lanes, or driving at higher speeds.
Braking Performance
Tyres with the right amount of air stop more effectively. Incorrect tyre pressure can increase braking distances, which may be critical in emergency situations.
Fuel Efficiency
Underinflated tyres create more rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder. Maintaining proper tyre pressure can help improve fuel economy and reduce unnecessary fuel costs.
Tyre Lifespan
Tyres that are not inflated correctly wear unevenly. Keeping the correct pressure helps your tyres wear evenly, extending their lifespan and saving you money over time.
What Is the Correct Tyre Pressure for My Car?
The correct tyre pressure for your car depends on several factors and is set by the vehicle manufacturer. There is no single recommended tyre pressure that applies to all cars, so it’s important to check the specific guidance for your vehicle rather than relying on guesswork.
Where to Find the Correct Tyre Pressure for Your Car
If you’re wondering where to find tyre pressure information, it’s usually located in one of the following places:
- On a sticker inside the driver’s door sill
- Inside the fuel filler cap
- In the vehicle’s owner’s manual
These sources will show the correct tyre pressure in PSI and bar, often displayed in a clear table for front and rear tyres (if the two differ).
Tyre Sidewall Numbers Explained
A common mistake many drivers make is using the numbers printed on the tyre sidewall. These figures show the maximum tyre pressure, not the recommended pressure for everyday driving. Inflating your tyres to the sidewall limit can lead to overinflated tyres, reduced grip, and uneven wear.
Recommended Tyre Pressure in the UK
For UK drivers, following the manufacturer’s guidance is essential for safety, fuel efficiency, and MOT compliance. If you’re unsure about the recommended tyre pressure UK drivers should use, a quick check at a trusted garage can save time and prevent problems.
At Advance Motors, our teams in Slough, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Watford, and Romford are always happy to help drivers find and set the correct tyre pressure for their vehicle.
How to Check Your Tyre Pressure
Knowing how to check tyre pressure is an essential skill for every driver. Regular checks help you spot issues early and keep your vehicle safe on the road.
When Should You Check Your Tyre Pressure?
For the most accurate reading, tyre pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold—ideally before you’ve driven or after the car has been parked for at least three hours. Driving heats the tyres and increases pressure, which can give a false reading.
How often should you check tyre pressure?
You should check it at least once a month and always before long journeys.
Tools You Can Use to Check Tyre Pressure
You can easily check your tyre pressure using a digital tyre pressure gauge, an analogue tyre pressure gauge, or using garage or petrol station air machines. Many forecourts have tyre inflation machines that allow you to check and adjust pressure at the same time.
Step-by-Step: How to Check Tyre Pressure
- Remove the valve cap from the tyre.
- Press the tyre pressure gauge firmly onto the valve.
- Read the pressure shown on the gauge.
- Compare the reading to your car’s recommended tyre pressure.
- Repeat the process for all four tyres (and the spare, if fitted).
Why Regular Checks Matter
Even if your tyres look fine, air slowly escapes over time. Regularly checking tyre pressure helps prevent underinflation, improves handling, and reduces the risk of uneven tyre wear.
How to Inflate or Deflate Your Tyres Safely
Once you know how to check tyre pressure, the next step is understanding how to inflate tyres or release air safely if the pressure is too high. This is a straightforward task that can be done at most petrol stations or at home with the right equipment.
How to Inflate Tyres at a Petrol Station
Most petrol station forecourts in the UK have air machines that make tyre inflation quick and easy.
- Park close enough for the air hose to reach all tyres.
- Remove the valve cap from the tyre.
- Set the machine to your car’s recommended tyre pressure (PSI or bar).
- Attach the hose firmly to the valve.
- Wait for the machine to finish inflating the tyre.
- Check the pressure reading and adjust if needed.
Repeat the process for each tyre, remembering that front and rear tyres may require different pressures.
How to Deflate Tyres Safely
If you have too much tyre pressure, it’s important to let air out gradually.
- Remove the valve cap.
- Use the tip of a key or a small tool to gently press the valve pin.
- Release air in short bursts.
- Recheck the pressure with a gauge.
- Stop once the correct tyre pressure is reached.
Avoid letting out too much air at once, as over-deflating can be just as problematic as overinflation.
A Quick Safety Reminder
Tyres should always be adjusted when cold for the most accurate results. If you’re unsure about the process or don’t have access to equipment, professional help is always available at your local Advance Motors branch. Check our Locations page to find your nearest garage.
Tyre Pressure Warning Light (TPMS): What It Means
The tyre pressure warning light, also known as the TPMS light, is a common dashboard symbol in modern vehicles. When it illuminates, it’s your car’s way of telling you that one or more tyres may not be at the correct pressure.
What Does the Tyre Pressure Warning Light Look Like?
The tyre pressure warning light usually looks like a horseshoe-shaped symbol with an exclamation mark inside. It may appear in amber or yellow on your dashboard.
Common Reasons the TPMS Light Comes On
There are several reasons why the tyre pressure warning light may illuminate:
Temperature changes: Cold weather causes air inside tyres to contract, leading to a drop in pressure. This is one of the most common reasons the TPMS light appears, especially during winter, and often means that no action is required.
Slow puncture: A small nail or screw can cause a gradual loss of air, triggering the warning light before the tyre appears visibly flat.
Recent pressure adjustment: After inflating or deflating tyres, the system may need to be reset. If this isn’t done, the TPMS light may stay on even when pressures are correct.
Natural air loss over time: Tyres naturally lose a small amount of air over time, which can eventually trigger the warning light.
What Should You Do When the TPMS Light Comes On?
If the TPMS light meaning indicates low pressure:
- Visually check your tyres for obvious damage
- Use a gauge to check tyre pressure
- Inflate tyres to the recommended tyre pressure
If the light remains on after adjustment, the system may need resetting or professional inspection. Contact our team for assistance.
When to Seek Professional Help
You should visit a garage if:
- The tyre pressure warning light flashes or stays on
- You repeatedly lose tyre pressure
- You suspect a puncture or sensor fault
At Advance Motors, we diagnose TPMS issues and check tyre pressure at our dealerships in Slough, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Watford, and Romford, helping you drive with confidence and peace of mind.
How Weather and Temperature Affect Tyre Pressure
Weather and temperature changes have a direct impact on tyre pressure, which is why regular checks are especially important throughout the year. Many drivers ask, “does cold weather affect tyre pressure?” The answer is yes.
Tyre Pressure in Cold Weather
In colder conditions, air inside your tyres contracts, causing pressure to drop. As a general guide, tyre pressure can decrease by around 1–2 PSI for every 10°C drop in temperature. This makes tyre pressure in winter a common issue for UK drivers.
Tyre Pressure in Hot Weather
In warmer weather, air expands and tyre pressure increases. While this may not always trigger a warning light, too much tyre pressure can still reduce comfort and traction, particularly on long summer journeys.
Before Long Journeys or Holidays
Before motorway trips or holidays, it’s especially important to check tyre pressure, because:
- Increased loads from passengers and luggage may require higher pressures
- Long-distance driving generates more heat in the tyres
- Incorrect pressure increases the risk of wear or failure
At Advance Motors, we encourage drivers in Slough, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Watford, and Romford to include tyre pressure checks as part of their seasonal vehicle maintenance routine.
Tyre Pressure and MOT Requirements
Many drivers ask whether tyre pressure is checked during an MOT. While tyre pressure itself isn’t directly measured with a gauge during the test, it still plays an important role in whether your vehicle passes or fails.
Can Tyre Pressure Fail an MOT?
Incorrect tyre pressure can indirectly lead to an MOT failure in several ways.
Tyre condition and safety
If tyre pressure is too low or too high, it can cause uneven or excessive tyre wear. Tyres that are worn beyond legal limits or show signs of damage may fail the MOT.
Tyre pressure warning light (TPMS)
For vehicles fitted with a TPMS system, an illuminated tyre pressure warning light is an MOT failure item. Incorrect tyre pressure is one of the most common reasons this light appears.
Overall roadworthiness
Severely underinflated tyres may be considered unsafe, especially if they affect steering, braking, or stability.
How Tyre Pressure Affects Tread Wear Patterns
Incorrect pressure can cause:
- Excessive wear on the outer edges (low pressure)
- Excessive wear in the centre of the tread (overinflation)
These wear patterns are easily spotted during an MOT inspection and may raise concerns about tyre safety.
Advice Before Your MOT
To reduce the risk of issues, it’s a good idea to:
- Check tyre pressure a few days before your MOT
- Ensure pressures match the recommended tyre pressure
- Address any TPMS warning lights in advance
At Advance Motors, we recommend a quick tyre pressure check before an MOT appointment. Our teams in Slough, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Watford, and Romford are happy to help ensure your vehicle is MOT-ready.
When to Get Your Tyres Checked Professionally
While regular DIY checks are important, there are times when it’s best to have your tyres inspected by a professional. Knowing when to get your tyres checked can help prevent bigger issues and keep your vehicle safe and roadworthy.
Signs You Should Visit a Garage
You should consider a professional tyre check if you notice:
- Repeated pressure loss
- Uneven tyre wear
- Tyre pressure warning light issues
- Vibration or handling problems
Professional Tyre Services at Advance Motors
At Advance Motors, we offer a range of tyre-related services designed to keep your car in top condition, including:
- Tyre pressure checks
- Comprehensive tyre inspections
- Seasonal vehicle health checks
- Advice on tyre condition and safety
Our experienced teams are available at our dealerships in Slough, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Watford, and Romford. Book a service with our expert team if your tyres are causing you issues.
FAQs About Tyre Pressure
How often should I check my tyre pressure?
You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before any long journeys. Tyres naturally lose air over time, even without a puncture, so regular checks help maintain the correct tyre pressure and prevent unnecessary wear.
Should tyre pressure be higher for motorway driving?
In some cases, yes. If you’re driving at sustained motorway speeds or carrying extra passengers and luggage, your vehicle manufacturer may recommend slightly higher tyre pressures. Always follow the recommended tyre pressure listed in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s door sill.
Do I check tyre pressure when tyres are hot or cold?
Tyre pressure should always be checked when tyres are cold. Driving heats the tyres and increases pressure, which can give an inaccurate reading. Ideally, check tyre pressure before driving or after the car has been parked for several hours.
Is tyre pressure the same for all four tyres?
Not always. Many vehicles have different pressure requirements for the front and rear tyres due to weight distribution and drivetrain layout. Always check the manufacturer’s guidance to ensure each tyre is inflated correctly.
What is the recommended tyre pressure in the UK?
There is no single recommended tyre pressure UK drivers should use, as it varies by vehicle. The correct pressure depends on your car’s make, model, tyre size, and load.
Conclusion
Understanding tyre pressure is a simple but essential part of responsible car ownership. From knowing what tyre pressure is to checking the correct tyre pressure for your vehicle, small steps can make a big difference to safety, fuel efficiency, and tyre lifespan.
Driving with tyres that are correctly inflated improves handling, braking performance, and comfort, while also helping you save fuel with correct tyre pressure and reduce unnecessary wear. Regular checks, especially during seasonal temperature changes or before long journeys, can help prevent issues such as uneven tyre wear, warning lights, and MOT problems.
If you’re ever unsure about your tyre pressure — or simply want peace of mind — Advance Motors is here to help. Our friendly teams offer free tyre pressure checks and professional inspections at our dealerships in Slough, Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, Watford, and Romford.
