How to measure tire pressure at a gas station

At this time when many Spaniards start or end their summer holidays, visits to service stations are common, not only to refuel but also to check the condition of the wheels. Let’s see how to measure tire pressure at a gas station.

Everyone is more or less aware of how important it is for safety that the tires are in perfect condition. They are the only element in direct contact with the road and their impact on vehicle performance is substantial.

Checking tire pressure is something that should be done regularly, but especially before starting a trip. Incorrect pressure affects safety and also consumption.

The most common is to go to a gas station to measure the tire pressure. Before, this operation was free, but for a few years you have to pay, usually one euro.

How to measure tire pressure at a gas station

Before proceeding, there is an issue that you must take into account: the tire pressure must be measured cold, since the air inside the tire tends to expand due to rolling and the measurement may be incorrect.

Therefore, it is important that you go to the gas station closest to you and avoid traveling more than three or four kilometers to carry out a correct pressure measurement.

Likewise, you should measure the pressure on the flat. Don’t do it with one wheel on a curb, on a hill where the entire weight of the car is on one of the axles, or in any situation where the values ​​might be unreliable.

To know what the ideal pressure of your tires is, you will have to consult the vehicle’s instruction manual. What values ​​do you have to keep in mind, when you find that information?

• Front tire pressure: normal load and full load.

• Rear tire pressure: normal load and full load.

Example:

• 2.1/2.3
• 2.0/2.2

The value you will see is usually in bars. If there is another, check that it matches the scales on your measuring device.

• Prepare the pressure gauge: place your car near the pressure gauge, which is usually in the Air and Water area of ​​​​the gas station. Position yourself right to the side or in front, depending on your position, and be sure to turn off the engine and engage the parking brake.

• Remove the caps: remove the caps from the wheels, including the spare, if you have one, and store them in a specific place so as not to lose them.

• Blow in the air: now you have to take the hose and place its mouth on the spout of the first wheel. Insert it gently and until the end. At first, you will hear the sound of air. Next, blow air, checking the pressure in the machine and adjusting it to the values ​​recommended by the manufacturer.

Now you just have to repeat this process on the rest of the wheels. Do not forget the spare wheel, since, if you suffer a puncture and you have to resort to it, it must have the same pressure or it will affect safety and consumption.

Lastly, make sure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Put the plugs back and yes, start your trip!