Conversion of Car Tire Pressure

Tire pressure may be expressed in different units of measure.

Correct tire pressure affects how the car rides, handles and how long the tires last. Be sure you understand the numbers on the tires and in the owner's manual to ensure your tires have the proper air pressure.

Standards

The air pressure for tires meant for use in the United States are expressed in pounds per square inch, often abbreviated PSI. Tires used exclusively in areas where the metric system is entrenched have their tire pressures expressed in Kilopascals, abbreviated kPa. Many tires show both numbers.

Conversion

To convert kPa to PSI or PSI to kPa remember: 1 psi equals 6.895 kPa. Divide the pKa number by 6.895 to convert to PSI or multiply the PSI number by 6.895 to determine the kPa.

Considerations

Regardless of which system is used, maintaining the correct pressure is vital. Many tires list a range of pressure on their sidewalls; however, if you look at the tire inflation placard usually found on the driver's door jamb and/or in the operator's manual, the manufacturer will list the tire pressure that's best for that model.

References

• Tire Rack: North American Load and Pressure Markings

Resources

• Calculate Now: Pressure Conversions