What PSI should Acura tires be?
The correct tire pressure for Acura vehicles is not a single universal value; it depends on the model, tire size, and loading. In general, most Acura sedans run around 32 psi when the tires are cold, while SUVs tend to be in the low 30s to mid-30s range. Always verify the exact number on the door placard or in the owner's manual for your specific model-year.
Where to find the exact PSI for your Acura
To inflate to the correct pressure, use the official sources on your car. The following places typically list the recommended cold inflation pressure for your tires.
- Door jamb placard located on the driver's door frame
- Owner’s manual
- Tire information label on the door jamb, fuel door, or glove box area (places may vary by model)
- Official Acura service resources or dealership if you cannot locate the label
In practice, the door placard is your primary source of truth. Use the exact figure printed there for your tire size and load profile.
Typical PSI ranges for common Acura models
While exact figures vary by model and trim, these ranges reflect common manufacturer guidance across many recent Acura vehicles. Always confirm with your specific placard.
- Sedans and coupes (e.g., ILX, TLX): typically around 32 psi cold
- SUVs (e.g., RDX, MDX): typically around 33 psi cold
- High-load or performance setups and certain tires: may specify slightly higher pressures (often up to the mid-30s psi); check the placard for your exact tire size
Remember, the exact pressure number on the placard for your car, tire size, and load condition is the authoritative value you should use.
How to check and adjust tire pressure correctly
Use these steps to ensure you inflate to the correct level and maintain tire health over time.
- Check tires when they are cold, meaning the car has not been driven for at least three hours (or overnight).
- Remove the valve cap from the tire and press a reliable gauge onto the valve stem to read the current psi.
- Inflate or deflate to the recommended cold psi shown on your vehicle’s placard for that tire size.
- Recheck all four tires (and the spare if you carry a full-size spare) and adjust as needed for even pressure across all tires.
- Replace the valve caps and store your gauge for future checks.
Maintaining the correct inflation improves handling, fuel efficiency, tire wear, and overall safety.
Seasonal and maintenance notes
Temperature changes, load variation, and tire type all influence preferred inflation. Consider these guidelines as you seasonally maintain your tires.
- Temperature effects: tire pressure typically changes about 1 psi for every 10°F change in ambient temperature (colder weather lowers pressure).
- Tire size and type: if you switch to winter tires, run-flat tires, or different wheel sizes, recheck the recommended PSI on the placard for the new setup.
- Regular checks: recalibrate pressures after significant weather shifts, before long trips, and when carrying heavy loads.
- TPMS: trust the tire-pressure warning system, but verify with a gauge if a warning appears or if readings seem inconsistent.
Consistent inflation practice supports safety, fuel economy, and longer tire life across the vehicle’s lifetime.
Summary
There is no single PSI that applies to every Acura. Inflate to the cold PSI specified on the vehicle’s door placard for your exact model, tire size, and load. For many recent Acura sedans, a baseline of about 32 psi is common, while SUVs tend to require around 33 psi. Always verify the placard, check pressures when temperatures shift, and adjust promptly to maintain optimal performance and safety.
What is the PSI for Acura tires?
between 32-36 PSI
As a rule of thumb, tire pressure should usually be between 32-36 PSI. Check your owner's manual for exact numbers, as these can vary from model to model.
Is 38 too high PSI?
Whether 38 psi is too high depends on your vehicle's recommended pressure, which is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb. If your car's recommended pressure is around 35 psi, 38 psi is slightly over-inflated and can lead to a firmer ride and increased wear in the center of the tire. However, it is generally considered safe as long as it is well below the maximum pressure printed on the tire's sidewall, which is typically around 50 psi.
What to consider
- Vehicle's recommendation: Always check the sticker on the driver's side door pillar or your owner's manual for the specific PSI your vehicle needs.
- Tire sidewall: The number on the tire's sidewall is the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle.
- Tire condition: Slight over-inflation like 38 psi is often safe if your recommended pressure is, for example, 35 psi.
- Driving conditions: Running at a slightly higher pressure might offer better fuel economy and tire life, but it can negatively impact traction and ride comfort. For most daily driving, sticking to the manufacturer's recommendation is best.
- Risks of high pressure: Over-inflating can cause the tire to bulge, reduce its contact with the road, and make it more vulnerable to damage from potholes and curbs.
How to check your pressure
- Check your vehicle's recommended tire pressure on the sticker on the driver's side door jamb.
- Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure of your tires when they are cold (before you have driven).
- If the pressure is too low, add air. If it is too high, release some air.
- If you're using a higher pressure like 38 psi and the recommended is 35 psi, you can keep it, but be mindful of the potential downsides to ride and traction.
Is 40 PSI too high for a car tire?
Yes, 40 psi is generally too high for a passenger car, as most recommend pressures are between 30 and 35 psi. While 40 psi is usually within the maximum limit printed on the tire's sidewall, it can cause a rougher ride, reduced traction, and faster wear in the center of the tire. For the correct tire pressure, check the sticker on the driver's side door frame or your car's owner's manual.
Potential downsides of overinflating to 40 psi
- Reduced comfort: You will feel bumps and road imperfections more acutely.
- Increased wear in the center: The tire tread can bulge in the middle, leading to uneven wear and shorter tire life.
- Lower traction: Less of the tire's surface will be in contact with the road, which can reduce grip.
- Increased risk of damage: Hitting potholes or curbs can be more damaging to overinflated tires and your car's suspension components.
Where to find the correct pressure
- Driver's side door jamb: Look for a sticker with the recommended tire pressure for your specific vehicle.
- Owner's manual: This is another reliable source for the correct tire pressure information.
- Front and rear tires: Note that the recommended pressure may be different for the front and rear tires, depending on your car's weight distribution.
Should my tires be 32 or 35 PSI?
For most cars, the recommended tire pressure is between 32 and 35 psi, and you should use the pressure listed on the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual. The correct pressure can vary by vehicle, and the pressure on the tire's sidewall is a maximum, not the recommended value. Using the correct pressure ensures proper handling, fuel efficiency, and tire life, while using the wrong pressure can cause poor handling, reduced traction, and premature wear.
How to find the right pressure
- Check the sticker on the driver's side door jamb. This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle.
- Consult your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendation.
- Note that the pressure should be checked when the tires are cold (before driving).
- Don't use the pressure listed on the tire's sidewall, as this is the maximum pressure the tire can hold, not the recommended pressure for your car.
Why the correct pressure is important
- Too low: Can lead to poor fuel economy, premature tire wear, and a higher risk of tire failure.
- Too high: Can cause reduced traction, an uncomfortable ride, and rapid, uneven tire wear.
- Correct pressure: Optimizes handling, safety, and fuel efficiency, and helps your tires last longer.
