A tire pressure gauge will help you maintain the pressure in your tires, which reduces wear and tear and increases your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
To get the most out of your tires you should check your tire pressure at least once a month. With such frequent service, a tire pressure gauge is an affordable tool every car owner should have in their glove compartment.
has compiled everything you need to know about checking your tire pressure and purchasing the best tire pressure gauge.
What to look for in a tire pressure gauge
When you are purchasing a tire pressure gauge, you should look at the maximum psi range and the accuracy at which it measures air pressure.
Look for a gauge that works within the psi range of your tires or the tires you’ll be using the gauge on. Tire gauges work best in the middle of their range, so if you run 15 psi in your tires, get a 30 PSI gauge.
You should also consider psi increments which will determine the reading accuracy. Gauges with finer increments will read the tire pressure more accurately.
There are three types of tire gauges: stick, digital, and dial. Each gauge will determine the pressure in your tires, but it's important to understand the difference between each type of gauge available.
Stick
The stick or pencil gauge is compact and affordable. The downside? It has a limited pressure range and does not provide an exact reading.
This gauge uses a spring and piston which allows the atmospheric and tire pressure to push against each other. The tire pressure is displayed on the white measuring stick.
is a great backup option to keep in your glove compartment or on a road trip and need a tire pressure gauge on the fly. You can purchase the Milton for less than $10at any gas station or online.
Digital
This gauge uses a digital sensor to read the air pressure and displays it on an LED screen, making it accurate and easy to read. However, the digital tire pressure gauge is battery-operated and subject to wear and tear over the years.
If you want a digital tire gauge that is reliable and includes a lifetime warranty, the
could be the first and last pressure gauge you’ll ever buy. You can purchase the ElitePro pressure gauge online for less than $30.
Dial
The dial or analog pressure gauge looks like a clock face, but the needle indicates the air pressure instead of the time. This gauge may include a bleeder valve or extension hose. Additional features can make it bulkier than other gauges and may require two hands to operate.
Whichever type of pressure gauge you decide to purchase, you’ll need to know how and when you should check your tire pressure.
Check the sticker inside the driver’s door of your vehicle to find out your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure then follow these steps to check your tire pressure:
Remove the cap from the air valve
Press the tire gauge against the valve stem
Read the air pressure gauge
Compare the number to the recommended tire pressure
Use an air compressor to inflate your tires to the recommended pressure
You should check your tire pressure once a month,using the same tire gauge to ensure accurate readings and extend the lifespan of your tire.
Key Takeaway Adhere to the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle to prevent over or under inflation of your tires and maintain fuel efficiency.
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FAQ
What is the best type of tire pressure gauge?
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Digital tire pressure gauges are the most accurate and user-friendly. The gauge can read the tire pressure in two to three seconds and will display the air pressure in PSI.
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