Driving is a daily necessity for many of us, whether we’re commuting to work or heading out on a road trip. One critical aspect of vehicle maintenance often overlooked is tyre care. Unlike fueling up, many drivers are unaware of how crucial tyre maintenance is or how to inflate tyres correctly.
Keeping your tyres properly inflated doesn’t just improve fuel efficiency – it can also make your car handle better and lower the chance of a dangerous blowout. The good news? Checking and inflating your tyres isn’t rocket science! In this guide, we’re going to show you how simple it is to take care of your tyres, so you can hit the road safely and confidently every time.
Understanding Tyre Inflation
Tyre pressure is crucial for optimal driving conditions. There are three states of tyre inflation – under-inflation, proper inflation, and over-inflation. Each has a unique impact on how your vehicle performs.
Photo credits: Dunlop
Under-inflated tyres: When your tyres lack sufficient air, they create more surface area contact with the road, causing increased friction and wear.
Properly inflated tyres: The key to ensuring your vehicle runs efficiently. They provide better traction, improve handling, and optimise fuel consumption.
Over-inflated tyres: With too much pressure, the tyres become rigid, increasing the risk of punctures or blowouts when exposed to potholes or debris. They also reduce the tyre’s ability to grip the road, making your ride less comfortable and potentially unsafe.
Checking Your Tyre Pressure Regularly
Ideally, you should inspect your tyre pressure at least once a month and before embarking on long journeys. One common mistake is checking tyre pressure when the tyres are warm. Warm air expands within the tyre, leading to inaccurate pressure readings. This false reading can cause you to over-inflate or under-inflate your tyres, compromising their performance.
To obtain an accurate pressure reading, it’s best to check your tyres when they’re cool. Ideally, perform this task before driving or after the vehicle has been parked for a few hours. By doing so, you’ll ensure that the pressure reading reflects the true state of your tyres.
Comprehensive Guide to Inflating Your Tyres
Step 1: Park at the Inflate Station
Drive to your nearest petrol station and locate the inflate station. These stations are usually found at the edges of the station. Park your vehicle close enough to the air pump so that the hose can easily reach all four tyres.
Step 2: Check Your Vehicle’s Recommended Pressure
Photo Credit: Cars.com
Before inflating, you need to know the correct tyre pressure for your vehicle. This information is typically located on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame or in your owner’s manual. The recommended pressure will vary depending on your vehicle’s weight and tyre size.
If in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer. Having the right information ensures you inflate your tyres to the appropriate level, optimising safety and performance.
Step 3: Set the Correct Pressure on the Pump
Photo Credits: Bro Hafiz TV
At the tyre inflator station, you’ll find a digital air pressure gauge. Use the ‘+’ and ‘–’ buttons to set the desired pressure based on your vehicle’s specifications. This feature allows you to inflate your tyres accurately.
Step 4: Start to Inflate
Find the valve stem on each tyre and remove the screw-on cap, attach the pump nozzle firmly onto the valve and listen for a slight hissing sound, which indicates the air is flowing.
As you inflate, the pump will automatically fill the tyre to the set pressure. Keep an ear out for a beeping sound or an indicator on the pump, which will alert you once the tyre reaches the correct pressure. If the pump doesn’t signal, double-check the connection between the nozzle and the valve.
Once each tyre is inflated, screw the valve cap back on securely. Don’t forget to visually inspect each tyre for any irregularities or visible damage. Properly inflated tyres contribute to a safer and smoother driving experience.
BHPetrol Stations The Convenient Choice
We hope you now feel more confident in handling air pumping like a pro! Ready to put these tips into practice? Head to your nearest BHPetrol station. With over 400 locations nationwide, BHPetrol offers easy access to modern air pumps, making it simple to maintain your tyre pressure anywhere.
Our dedication to customer service ensures well-maintained facilities and friendly staff ready to assist you. With stations conveniently located, tyre maintenance is made easy, ensuring you’re never far from a reliable inflate and refuel station!
