Reading a tire air pressure gauge is a simple but important task that can help you maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle. Tire pressure gauges are used to measure the air pressure inside a tire, which should be within a specific range specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to a variety of problems, including decreased fuel efficiency, poor handling, and increased risk of accidents.
To read a tire air pressure gauge, first remove the cap from the tire valve stem. Then, press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem until the gauge reads the pressure. The pressure will be displayed in pounds per square inch (psi). Once you have the reading, compare it to the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. If the tire pressure is low, add air using an air compressor until the desired pressure is reached. If the tire pressure is high, release air by pressing on the valve stem with a small object like a key or a pen.