Check your tyre pressures at least once a month, and always before a long journey. Even healthy tyres lose air gradually through the rubber and valve, and a small drop hurts grip, economy and tyre life long before you'd notice it driving.
Why monthly?
Tyres can lose a small amount of pressure every month just through natural permeation, more in cold weather. A tyre that's a few PSI low won't feel dramatically different, but it wears unevenly, uses more fuel and is more prone to overheating.
Don't rely on the TPMS alone
A TPMS is a safety net, not a substitute for checking. Many systems only warn once a tyre is significantly low (often around 25% under), by which point you've already lost performance. Some indirect systems can also be fooled. A monthly manual check catches problems earlier.
When to check more often
- Before any long or motorway trip.
- When the car is heavily loaded (use the laden pressure).
- After a big temperature change, see cold-weather pressure.
- If you suspect a slow puncture.
How to check properly
Always check when cold with an accurate gauge, and don't forget the spare. It takes five minutes and saves money and tyres.
We check and correct pressures on every callout across London and Birmingham. Book a visit.
