How to use a tire gauge

Checking the pressure of your tires regularly will help you know if they are in need of air pressure. When your tires are properly inflated you will get better gas mileage. Here is how to use a tire gauge to check tire pressure.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Remove the cap from the tire valve.

2. The tire gauge has two ends. One end fits on the valve and the other end will have a measurement stick that shoots out when the other end is placed on the valve. Make sure the measurement stick is all the way inside the tire gauge.

3. 

   Place the end that fits on the valve (usually a circular or round opening) quickly and firmly to create a tight seal. The measurement stick will shoot out.

4. Check the measurement stick and read how much pressure is in your tire. Read the number on the far right of the stick after putting it on the tire valve. This is the amount of pressure in your tire.

5. Try it several times to make sure you get an accurate reading. Sometimes it will not read correctly if you do not get a quick seal on the valve. Keep testing the pressure until you get the same reading two or three times.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the link to learn how to add air to your tire and how to tell if the pressure is too low.

Resources

• How to put air in a tire