Tyre Pressure Check
Tyre pressure is an easy area to neglect, but an important part of your vehicle’s safety, handling and fuel efficiency. If it’s been over a month since you last examined your tyres, it’s time for a tyre pressure check.
Your tyre pressure is the measurement of how much air is in your tyres. It’s this air pressure that carries your vehicle’s weight and keeps your wheel rims off the road. Your tyres have an ideal pressure as set by your manufacturer, and it’s important to get it right. Too much or too little air pressure can reduce traction and cause uneven tyre wear. Low tyre air pressure can make you lose your grip on the road, increase the time it takes to brake and raise your fuel consumption.
While you can examine your tyres yourself and pump them up at the petrol station, hiring a pro for a reliable tyre pressure check has its benefits. A mechanic can provide you with a level of knowledge and accuracy drawn from years of professional experience. They can also spot potential issues with your tyres, wheels and other parts of your car that may cause future problems if you don’t address them. If you’re planning to embark on a long road trip and need to make sure your tyres are ready to carry you all the way, a mobile mechanic can meet you where you are and give you the help you need.
NC Autos can provide you with a car service and tyre pressure check at the time and location that suits you the best. We’re mobile mechanics in the Moreton Bay area providing servicing and repairs from Caboolture to Chermside to Warner. We’re committed to your safety and peace of mind, and our 15+ years of experience means we’re more than capable of providing you with it.
How much air should you put in your tyres?
For most vehicles in Australia, the recommended tyre pressure is between 30 and 35 PSI. However, it’s important to check the standard measurement according to your car’s manufacturer. You can usually find that standard measurement in the user’s manual, on the sidewall of the tyre or on the vehicle itself.
If you’re towing a heavy load or consistently driving your vehicle at high speeds, it’s recommended that you increase your tyre pressure slightly higher than the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically by two to five psi. In this way, you compensate for the extra pressure placed on your tyres and reduce the risk of accidents and blowouts.
How to check and inflate your tyre pressure
It’s best to perform a tyre pressure check when your tyres are cold, which is usually when you’ve been parked for over three hours or you’ve driven less than two kilometres at a moderate pace. You can check your tyre pressure at most petrol stations, but you’ll get the best results from trying one that’s close by.
To check your tyre’s pressure, unscrew the valve cap, press the gauge onto the valve stem and read the number displayed. At a service station, this will most likely be on the main unit attached to the hose.
If the tyre pressure is lower than the manufacturer’s recommendations, it’s time to add some air. If it’s too high, press the middle of the valve stem with the gauge to gently release some.
When you inflate the tyre, make sure you attach the hose to the valve securely. Otherwise, the pump will detect an air leak which will cause the compressor to stop.
To fill your tyre, unscrew the valve cap, attach the air compressor hose to the valve and press down on the lever. If you’re using an automatic tyre compressor, all you have to do is hold the lever down until you hear a beep. When you hear the beep, you know your tyres have reached the right set pressure. If you’re using a manual air compressor, press the level to let the air inside in short bursts. Measure in short intervals and repeat as necessary.
When you’ve finished, check the tyre pressure to make sure your tyres have been correctly inflated. If you’ve added too much air, release some. Repeat with all four tyres until all have been sufficiently filled. While you’re at it, make sure you have an inflated spare tyre in your boot in case the worst occurs and you end up with a flat tyre despite all your preparation.
If you’re busy, about to embark on a long trip and just need some professional advice on the state of your tyre pressure, get in touch with NC Autos. We’re a mobile mechanic in the Moreton Bay region that can look after your tyres at the same time as we provide a car service.
NC Autos’ quick and easy tyre pressure checks
Make sure your tyres have enough air to carry you through your journey by booking a quick tyre pressure check with NC Autos. Call NC Autos on 075208 8962 or make an online booking.
Keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently with a quick tyre pressure check at NC Autos, proudly serving the Queensland suburbs of Caboolture, Chermside, and Warner. Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential for optimal fuel efficiency, improved handling, and extended tyre life. Whether you’re commuting from Chermside, running errands around Caboolture, or navigating the roads of Warner, our expert team at NC Autos is here to ensure your tyres are in top condition. Drop in today for a fast, friendly service that keeps you and your vehicle road-ready.