How to Check Tire Pressure Without a Gauge
In a pinch, you can use your hands and eyes to check tire pressure without a gauge. Here’s what to look for.
Written by Bonnie Stinson
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
To check tire pressure without a gauge, you can feel the tires with your hands, visually assess their shape, or observe key signifiers while driving (e.g., reduced grip on the road). Here’s what you need to know.
Low tire pressure is not only annoying but it’s also dangerous. Without the proper air pressure, your tires won’t grip the road properly, your suspension system is at risk, and your tires could even blow out. But if you don’t have a gauge, how can you check the tire pressure?
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A quick intro to tire pressure
First, let’s define the units of tire pressure. PSI stands for pounds per square inch.
Smaller vehicles tend to have a recommended PSI between 27 and 32. This usually applies to sedans, minitrucks, and minivans. Larger vehicles and some SUVs may have a PSI as high as 45.
Every tire or vehicle has its own specific PSI. You can usually find the target PSI marked on the tire itself, in your owner’s manual, or on the driver’s side door.
It’s very important to understand what the pressure reading should be for your specific vehicle. Ideally, you’ll use a
tire pressure gauge
to measure your tire pressure precisely. Without a gauge, it will be difficult to get a specific reading. However, just because you don’t have one doesn’t mean you can’t perform a quick pressure check. Any over-or under-inflation can be bad for your vehicle! A spongy ride, poor fuel efficiency, or noisy steering can all be indications that your tire pressure is off.
Experts say you should check your tire pressure once per month if you drive frequently, drive through changing conditions, or transport large loads. The right tire pressure contributes to a smooth ride, improves gas mileage, increases grip on the road, protects your suspension system, and prolongs the life of your tires.
MORE: How often to check your car’s tire pressure
Three ways to check tire pressure without a gauge
Let’s start with the easiest way. Some cars have a visual alert on the instrument cluster when tire air pressure is low. If the light illuminates, simply pull over and check your tires.
If your vehicle does not have a tire pressure alert system—and if you do not have a gauge—here are three ways to check tire pressure without a gauge:
1. Hand pressure. Feel the wheels. They should be not firm or soft but somewhere in between. Ideally, you should be able to push the tires slightly. It takes some practice to identify the proper tire pressure by touch.
2. Eyeball it. Park in a flat area. Examine your tires closely and then add weight to the car, either with cargo or passengers. Bulges in the tires mean your tire pressure is low.
3. Driving experience. You may notice a rough ride, noise when steering, and reduced grip on the road when your tire pressure is low.
Of course, you can always visit a gas station or a mechanic. Many gas stations have tire fill-up stations with a built-in gauge.
If you can, pop over to the corner store gas station to grab a cheap tire gauge. It’s well worth investing the $5 to have your own gauge on hand in the glove box.
Other ways to keep your tires in good shape
To keep your tires in peak condition, make sure to get the wheels aligned and rotated regularly. Some chains, like Les Schwab, will perform visual alignment inspections for free.
Most importantly, do not drive on tires with low pressure. You can easily damage your wheels and suspension system by driving less than a mile on poorly inflated tires.
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