The recommended tire pressure for a Kia Optima is generally 34-35 pounds per square inch (PSI) for both front and rear tires. It’s a good idea to check your tire pressure monthly to ensure it stays at the right level.
Under- or over-inflated tires aren’t just an inconvenience, they can also become a significant safety issue since they can affect your handling ability and increase your risk of experiencing a tire blowout. It could also reduce your fuel economy, which could make a significant dent in your wallet after a while. By maintaining the right tire pressure, you can ensure your tires last as long as possible and save yourself money in the long run.
Not sure about the optimal tire pressure for your own Optima? Fortunately for you, Jerry
, the trustworthy super app
for car insurance
shopping has you covered. Read on to learn more about your Kia Optima tire pressure recommendations! What is the right tire pressure for a Kia Optima?
The tire pressure recommendations for your Kia Optima will depend on its model year and the tires it’s equipped with. Generally, the range is usually 34 to 35 psi for front and rear tires.
You can easily check your own Kia Optima’s tire pressure recommendations by looking at the label found on your driver’s side door jamb. You’ll also find them in your owner’s manual, along with guidance on how those recommendations might vary based on certain conditions.
If you’re using a set of wheels that didn’t come standard with your Kia Optima, you may need to check those tires’ specific requirements to determine the right tire pressure for your setup.
Tire pressure recommendations for other Kia vehicles
With different vehicles come different weight loads and tire sizes—which also means different tire pressure requirements. Here’s a look at how tire pressure requirements compare among various other Kias.
MORE:Winter tires vs. all-season tires: Which is better?
How to check Kia Optima tire pressure
You can easily check your Kia Optima’s tire pressure readings on your dashboard, but it’s always a good idea to periodically double-check those readings with a tire pressure gauge
. Most gas stations have tire pressure gauges available for use if you don’t have your own, and they’re relatively uncomplicated to use.
All you need to do is remove your tire’s valve stem cap and press the gauge onto the valve stem until you no longer hear a hissing sound. Then, you can note the pressure reading and add or release air as needed.
How often should you check tire pressure?
Ideally, you should check your tire pressure at least once a month, as well as before any long road trips.
How to tell if your Kia Optima needs new tires
You may need to replace your Kia Optima’s tires somewhere between every three to six years—it largely depends on how often you're driving and under what kinds of conditions.
If you notice these symptoms, even after properly inflating your Kia Optima’s tires, it might be time to replace them:
Low tire tread (ideally shouldn’t be lower than 4 mm)
Uneven tire wear or tread
Less responsive braking and steering
Cracks, punctures, or bulges in tire(s)
All tires will have to be replaced at some point. But to get the most life out of your current set, here are some steps you can take:
Practice gentler driving behaviors, like more gradual braking, accelerating, and steering
Keep your tires properly inflated and monitor them periodically for signs of wear or damage
Avoid potholes and other roadway obstacles whenever possible
MORE:How low can your tire pressure go?
How to reset the Kia Optima tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light
Usually, your Kia Optima’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light will reset itself automatically once the tires have been properly inflated.
Sometimes you may need to drive a certain distance or length of time for this to happen—typically about 20 minutes or so.
If that doesn’t work, you can also force a TPMS reset
by pressing and holding the TPMS reset button, which can usually be found below and to the right of the steering wheel. After holding the button for a few seconds, the low tire pressure light should flash three times and turn off. The next time you start your vehicle, the TPMS should refresh after about 20 minutes of driving. If your TPMS light still isn’t resetting, it’s possible there could be a problem with the sensors or battery, in which case it’s best to take your vehicle to the auto shop or a Kia service center to get to the bottom of the issue.
How to save on Kia Optima insurance
Properly-inflated tires can improve your vehicle’s overall handling and give you more control while you’re headed down the road. Likewise, the Jerry
app can give you more control over the car insurance
shopping process. After answering a few basic questions, like the level of coverage you’re looking for, Jerry will instantly gather personalized car insurance quotes from up to 55+ top insurance providers. With so many options based on your unique profile all in one place, it’s quick and easy to find the lowest Kia Optima car insurance costs
available to you. Not only can Jerry help you smoothly roll over to your new policy once you’ve made your pick, but after doing so, the average driver enjoys more than $800 per year in savings on their car insurance!
“My previous insurer of 5 years hiked up my rates. I looked to Jerry
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