Check and inflate tires to the door-jamb PSI when cold

Measure tire pressure with a gauge when tires are cold (not driven for 3+ hours) and inflate to the PSI listed on the driver's door-jamb sticker -- never the maximum printed on the tire sidewall.

Steps

1. Find the recommended PSI: Open the driver's door and read the sticker on the jamb or check the owner's manual. Front and rear values may differ.
2. Remove the valve cap: Press a tire pressure gauge firmly onto the valve stem until the hissing stops and a reading appears.
3. Adjust pressure: If low, add air with a compressor in short bursts, rechecking after each. If high, press the center pin to bleed air in small increments.
4. Repeat on all tires: Check all four tires plus the spare, which often requires a higher pressure noted in the manual.

Tips

• Check pressure at least once a month and before any long trip
• Digital gauges are easier to read; dial gauges tend to stay accurate longer
• Gas station compressors can overinflate quickly -- add air in 2-3 second bursts