How to Put Air in Tires

One of the most important things you need to know how to do for your car is to keep its tires properly inflated. This will greatly increase their lifespan, improve fuel economy and handling, and keep you much safer on your Queen Creek commute. In most vehicles, your dashboard will alert you to whether your tires are over- or under-inflated. This symbol often resembles a flat tire with an exclamation point in the center, though there’s room for variation. We’ll also teach you how to reset this light once you’ve aired up your tires to the proper PSI. If, after reading this guide, you find you’re in need of assistance or a tire change, reach out to the service department at Courtesy CDJR of Superstition Springs in Mesa! 

Adding Air to Tires: Step-by-Step Guide

Even if you’ve never adjusted your car’s tire pressure on your own, it’s not too hard if you have a guide. To add air to your tires, follow these steps below: 

• Pull up to the air dispenser at your local gas station. 
• Make sure you can reach all four tires with the air hose.
• Remove the cap from the tire valve on the first tire.
• Then, use your tire gauge to check the air pressure in the tire.
• Repeat this process for the other three tires. 

It’s worth noting that the air hose gauges at many gas stations aren’t 100% reliable. This is often due to the fact that driving causes the tires to heat and the inside air to expand; this increases the tire pressure. Above all, you’ll want to avoid overinflating the tire. Use the air hose to add air in short bursts and make sure that — regardless of what the second reading is — you only top up what was lost before visiting the dispenser. 

If you do add too much air — don’t panic. Simply release some of the air. Press the pin on the tire valve with the back of the air hose nozzle, or use the small knob on the back of the rounded end of the tire gauge. And most importantly, don’t give up if you have to adjust the pressure more than a few times. It takes practice! 

How Much Air Should I Put in My Tires? 

You can find the recommended tire pressure for new CDJR vehicles shown on a sticker inside the driver’s door. If you’re unable to find a sticker, check the owner’s manual; there, you’ll find everything you need to know about your car’s tire pressure. Generally, passenger cars suggest 32 to 35 psi (pound per square inch) when they’re cold. To get the most accurate reading you can, check the tire pressure after the car has cooled off. When inflating your tires, keep the following in mind: 

• Don’t inflate your tires to the psi given on the actual tire. This number indicates the maximum amount of pressure the tire can hold — not its recommended psi. 
• You can usually tell that you’ve overinflated your tires when the ride quality is bouncy and the car is harder to handle. 
• Underinflated tires can lead to faster tire wear and tear.

Resetting Your Tire Pressure Light

After you properly inflate your tires, the tire pressure light should go off on its own. If it remains on, there are a few actions you can take:

• Drive at or above 50 mph for 10 minutes to reset the sensor. This can cause your sensor to reset the next time you turn on the car.
• With the vehicle off, turn the key to the “On” position, but don’t start the car. Hold the TPMS reset button until the tire pressure light blinks three times, then release it. Start the car and wait 20 minutes for the sensor to refresh. The tire pressure monitor reset button is usually located beneath the steering wheel. If you can’t find it, check the user’s manual.
• Inflate all tires to 3 PSI over their recommended amount, then deflate them completely. Be sure to include the spare tire, as it may have a sensor as well. Once they’re all deflated, reinflate to the recommended tire pressure.
• With the vehicle off, disconnect the positive battery cable with a wrench. Turn the car on and honk the horn for about three seconds. This will discharge any power still stored in the vehicle. Then reconnect the battery.

What Does a Flashing Tire Pressure Light Mean?

Tire pressure sensors often use a battery, and a flashing tire pressure light can often be a sign that the battery needs replaced. It could also indicate a problem with one of the sensors. Either way, you’ll want to schedule service at Courtesy CDJR of Superstition Springs near Apache Junction. We can diagnose the problem and get you back on the road safely.

Reach Out to Courtesy CDJR of Superstition Springs for Tire Service in Mesa 

Now you know how to keep your tires properly inflated on Tempe streets and how to reset your tire pressure. If you find you’re due for a tire change, tire rotation, or you just have further questions, call Courtesy CDJR of Superstition Springs at 480-418-5715! We can provide you with affordable and effective assistance. While you’re here, take a moment to explore our site for other helpful reads, including our overviews of how often to rotate your tires and how to make your tires last longer!