Car Tire Pressure and How to Fill Tires with Air

Keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure not only helps extend the life of your tires, it also improves your vehicle’s fuel economy, handling, and overall ride quality. Do you know how to fill tires with air? It’s an essential skill for drivers in Suffolk and beyond! Keep reading to learn more about tire pressure, how to fill tires with air, and more — courtesy of the Service Center team at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk. Be sure to contact them if you have any questions! 

How to Fill Tires with Air – Step-by-Step Guide

Of course, you’ll need to visit a spot with an air compressor & hose, like the air dispenser at most gas stations. Even if you don’t consider yourself mechanically inclined, it’s an easy task to fill your car’s tires on your own, especially if you follow the guidelines below:

• Make sure you can reach all four tires with the air hose.
• Remove the cap from the tire valve on the first tire.
• Then, use your tire gauge to check the air pressure in the tire.
• If your gauge shows below the tire pressure recommended for your tires, fill accordingly.
  (Applying air in 5-second bursts and checking the gauge in between is a good way to prevent overinflation. If you accidentally over inflated, simply use the air dispenser gauge to release air from the tire.)
• Replace the cap from the tire valve.
• Repeat this process for the other three tires.

How Much Air Should I Put in My Tires? 

The recommended tire pressure for OEM wheels and tires can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door. If you’re unable to find the sticker, just check your owners manual, where you should find everything you need to know about your car’s recommended tire pressure. Typically, passenger vehicles suggest anywhere from 32 to 35 psi (pounds per square inch) when cold. When inflating your vehicle’s tires, don’t inflate your tires to the psi given on the tire itself — this number indicates the maximum amount of pressure the tire can hold, not its recommended psi. 

Schedule Tire Service at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Norfolk! 

Why spend more of your money visiting a specialty tire store when you could work directly with your favorite Norfolk dealership? Our professional team of Service Advisors, Technicians, and Support Staff are ready and waiting to make your tire ordering process a breeze. You can even use our online Tire Finder tool right from the comfort of your own home!