How Often Should You Check Your Tire Pressure?
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is one of the simplest — yet most important — things you can do to keep your vehicle safe, efficient, and reliable. Despite being easy to overlook, tyre pressure has a direct impact on your car’s fuel economy, handling, and tyre lifespan. So, how often should you actually be checking it?
The General Rule: Once a month
Most automotive experts recommend checking your tyre pressure at least once a month. Tyres naturally lose air over time — around 1 to 2 PSI (pounds per square inch) per month — even if there are no leaks. This rate can increase with temperature changes, especially during seasonal transitions.
Why Monthly Checks Matter
Fuel Efficiency: Underinflated tyres create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder and burn more fuel.
Safety: Incorrect pressure can reduce traction, especially in wet conditions, and increase braking distances.
Tyre Wear: Incorrect pressure (too low or too high) can cause uneven tyre wear, leading to premature replacements.
Handling: Proper inflation keeps your car handling as it should — which is especially important in emergency manoeuvres.
For more information on this, check out our blog post here on why tyre pressure is so important.
Check More Often in These Situations
While once a month is a solid baseline, there are times when more frequent checks are wise:
Before long trips or heavy loads: If you're hitting the road for a long journey or hauling extra weight, make sure your tyres are properly inflated first.
In extreme temperatures: Tyre pressure can drop in cold weather and rise in hot conditions. Every 10°C change in temperature can affect tyre pressure by about 1-2 PSI.
If your car has been sitting for a while: Tyres lose pressure even when parked. Before driving again, check them.
If you hit a pothole or curb: Sudden impacts can cause slow leaks or rim damage, affecting pressure.
How to Check Tire Pressure
Use a reliable tyre pressure gauge — digital or dial types are more accurate than the old stick-type.
Know your recommended pressure. This is usually found in your owner's manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door shut — not on the tyre itself.
Check when tires are cold. Tyre pressure increases as you drive and the tyres heat up. For the most accurate reading, check before driving or after the car has been parked for a few hours.
Final Thoughts
Checking your tyre pressure is quick, easy, and can save you money and keep you safe. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for a monthly check — or better yet, tie it to a regular routine like filling up with fuel. Your tires (and wallet) will thank you.