Tyre Pressure Explained: Why It Matters More Than You Think
Tyre pressure is one of the cheapest, fastest checks available, taking a couple of minutes at any petrol station, yet it's one of the most commonly neglected, despite affecting safety, fuel economy, and tyre lifespan all at once.
Where to find the correct pressure
Not the number printed on the tyre's sidewall, which is the tyre's maximum rating, not the correct pressure for your car. The right figure is specific to your vehicle and is usually printed on a sticker inside the driver's door frame, inside the fuel filler flap, or in the handbook, and it often differs between front and rear axles, and changes again if you're carrying a full load.
What happens when pressure is too low
Under-inflated tyres flex more than they should, generating extra heat and wearing unevenly on the outer edges. They also increase rolling resistance, which measurably worsens fuel economy, and they lengthen braking distances, particularly in wet conditions.
What happens when pressure is too high
Over-inflated tyres wear more in the centre of the tread and reduce the contact patch with the road, which can reduce grip and make the ride noticeably harsher, since less of the tyre is actually cushioning the impact from bumps.
How often to check
Monthly is the commonly recommended minimum, and pressure should be checked when tyres are cold, since driving warms the air inside and gives a falsely high reading. Pressure also drops naturally with falling temperatures, which is why tyres often need attention specifically as the seasons change.
Check a car's MOT history for tyre-related advisories before you buy.
Check MOT history