How to know the right tyre pressure for your vehicle?

The right tyre pressure for your vehicle can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb!

4 min read
How to know the right tyre pressure for your vehicle?

Welcome to Affordable Tyres Class 101

Today, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked - but incredibly important—topics in car maintenance: how to know the correct tyre pressure for your vehicle. Grab a seat, fasten your seatbelt, and let’s roll. 🚗💨

Tyre Pressure: The Great Debate

For some reason, the question of "what's the right tyre pressure?" often sparks confusion - or heated debates - especially among new car owners. It’s like arguing over whether jollof rice or fried rice is better. (Spoiler alert: tyre pressure matters more on the road than either rice at a party.)

Whether you’re a rookie or an “Agba driver” (that’s an experienced driver for our non-Yoruba friends), knowing your vehicle’s correct tyre pressure is essential for:

  • Safety

  • Fuel efficiency

  • Smooth rides

  • Tyre longevity

So yes, even Agba drivers need a refresher now and then.

Step 1: Consult Your Vehicle’s Manual (A.K.A. Your Guidebook)

Let’s start from the very beginning.

Your vehicle owner’s manual is not just a fancy booklet wasting space in your glove compartment. It’s your guidebook to your car’s soul. Inside, you’ll find all sorts of vital information, including:

  • Recommended tyre pressure (in PSI or kPa)

  • VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

  • Safety instructions

  • Warranty info

  • Features and controls

  • Driving instructions tailored to your car


If you don’t have your manual (no judgment!), look for a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb, the fuel filler flap, the glovebox, or under the bonnet. No go allow baba vulcaniser just pump 50psi into your tyres.

Step 2: Check Tyre Pressure When Tyres Are Cold

Timing matters. Always check your tyre pressure when your tyres are cold - preferably:

  • Before driving for the day

  • Or after the car has been parked for a few hours.

This ensures you get an accurate reading, as driving heats up the tyres and inflates the pressure reading falsely.

Step 3: Use a Reliable Tyre Pressure Gauge

Don’t just guess or use “vibes and inshallah.”
Use a tyre pressure gauge - a simple but essential tool for your car maintenance kit.

There are two main types:

  • Digital gauge (reads pressure on a small screen)

  • Stick/pencil gauge (the stick pops out to indicate the pressure)

We like to call it your MMC: Monitor, Measure, Control.

Step 4: Read and Adjust the Tyre Pressure

Once you’ve measured the pressure:

  • If it’s too low, use an air compressor to add air or visit the vulcaniser or a fitment centre. No allow baba vulcaniser, put 50 psi, as that is their default recommendation.

  • If it’s too high, press the valve stem to let some air out

Pro Tip: Tyre pressure is usually measured in PSI (Pounds per Square Inch). Always adjust to match your manufacturer’s recommendation.

Step 5: Repeat for All Four Tyres

Yes, you have to check all four. (Even the one that “looks fine.”)

Uneven tyre pressure can cause your car to pull to one side, reduce fuel efficiency, and wear out your tyres faster. Don't be that guy.

Step 6: Replace Valve Caps

After adjusting, don’t forget to screw the valve caps back on.
They might seem like small accessories, but they protect your tyre valves from dirt, debris, and moisture.

Step 7: Monitor Regularly

Tyre pressure isn't a one-time thing.

Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure:

  • At least once a month

  • Before long trips

  • After a sudden temperature change (cold weather can lower tyre pressure)

Why the Right Tyre Pressure Matters

Still not convinced this isn't just a boring car fact? Here’s why maintaining correct tyre pressure is a game-changer:

✅ Improved fuel economy
✅ Better handling and braking
✅ Reduced risk of tyre blowouts
✅ Longer tyre lifespan
✅ Smoother, more comfortable ride

So next time someone asks if tyre pressure matters, you can confidently say: “Absolutely—and here’s why.”

Class Dismissed! 🎓

And just like that, you’ve graduated from Affordable Tyres Class 101.
Give yourself a round of applause - you now know how to check and maintain your tyre pressure like a pro.

Got questions? Drop them in the comments or stop by for our next class!

Until then - drive safe, stay pumped (pun fully intended), and take care of your tyres.

If you are still unsure, you can give us a call on 09087934000 or visit https://affordabletyres.ng/, and we are sure to advise you on the best tyres to get and advice on the right pressure to put in your tyres.

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