How to Check the Tire Pressure on Your Volkswagen

Properly inflated tires wear more evenly, last longer, improve gas mileage and keep you and your passengers safe while on the road. Your VW dealer recommends checking your tire pressure at least once a month. Here are a few key tips on how to properly check tire pressure.

Tips From Your VW Dealer: How to Check Tire Pressure

Start With Cold Tires

Tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch, or PSI. The recommended PSI is based on the pressure level in a cold tire. If you perform a pressure check on hot tires, you’ll get an incorrect reading. The best time to check your tire pressure is first thing in the morning before you’ve driven anywhere. If this isn’t possible, make sure you haven’t driven your car for at least a few hours before you check your tire pressure.

Know Your Numbers

You’ll also want to know the right PSI for your tires before you check their pressure. The front and rear tires might have different recommended pressure levels, so it’s important to write down the correct number for each tire before checking them with a gauge. There may also be different numbers for normal or heavy loads. You can find this information – for example, “35 PSI” – in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door frame.

Choose Your Gauge

There are two types of tire pressure gauges: battery-powered digital gauges and regular stick-type gauges. These can be purchased at any auto parts store or gas station. Both types of gauges are accurate, so it’s simply a matter of personal preference regarding which one you use.

To check the tire pressure, remove the cap from the tire’s air valve and set it aside. Seat the gauge on the valve stem and press down to make a firm connection between the gauge and the valve stem. A firm connection will stop the hissing sound made by air escaping from the tire. Your gauge will now display the tire’s PSI.

Adjust Tire Pressure

Compare the pressure you just measured with the manufacturer’s recommendation. If the PSI reading is above the recommendation, push in the valve to let out some air. If the PSI reading is below the recommendation, use a home air compressor (or visit a gas station if you don’t own one) to fill the tire with air until it has the correct level. Make sure you put the valve cap back on snugly and then do the same thing to the other three tires plus the spare.

While checking the tire pressure on a car is a simple process that only takes a few minutes, there’s often no substitute for the expertise of a qualified Volkswagen dealer. Whether you’re in need of parts, service, or maybe even a beautiful new VW, visit Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

Posted in Jacksonville Car Repair, Jacksonville Used Cars, Jacksonville Volkswagen Dealer, Jacksonville Volkswagen Service, Tom Bush Volkswagen, Tom Bush Volkswagen Service | No Comments »