What should your PSI level be?
For most passenger cars, the correct tire pressure is whatever the manufacturer specifies for your model—usually found on a door jamb sticker or in the owner's manual and typically around 30-35 psi when the tires are cold.
This article explains how to locate that number, how to measure tire pressure accurately, how to adjust for load and weather, and what ranges look like for different vehicles and tires.
Where the recommended PSI comes from
The target PSI is set by the vehicle manufacturer and is tailored to a given tire size, axle load, and typical driving conditions. It is not the maximum tire pressure printed on the sidewall. Always use the value found on the door placard or in the owner's manual, and note that front and rear tires may have different targets and that seasonal changes or heavy loads can justify adjustments.
PSI ranges by vehicle type
What follows are common starting points to help you gauge proper inflation. Always confirm with your specific placard, since numbers vary by model and tire type.
- Passenger cars: typically about 30-35 psi (cold). Check the placard for the exact figure—but 32-34 psi is common for many sedans and hatchbacks.
- Light trucks and SUVs: commonly 32-40 psi, with some models recommending up to 45 psi for heavy loads or highway driving. Front and rear pressures can differ.
- High-performance or winter tires: often in the 32-40 psi range, depending on tire width, load, and speed ratings; always verify the placard or manual for the exact target.
- Bicycles (road and mountain): road tires typically run around 80-120 psi, while mountain bike tires commonly range from 25-40 psi depending on rider weight and terrain. Always verify with tire sidewall markings and rim compatibility.
These ranges are general guidelines. The placard on your vehicle or the owner's manual remains the final authority for your tires.
Measuring and adjusting tire pressure: step-by-step
To ensure accuracy, follow a straightforward procedure whenever you check or adjust tire pressure.
- Check the tires when they are cold, ideally before driving or after at least three hours of no driving.
- Locate the exact recommended PSI for each axle on the door placard or in the owner's manual.
- Use a reliable tire pressure gauge and a stable air source or compressor.
- Remove the valve cap and attach the gauge; read the current pressure for each tire.
- Inflate or release air as needed to reach the target. If you add air, check the pressure again to avoid overinflation.
- Reinstall the valve caps and recheck all four tires, then recheck after a short drive to see if pressures have changed with heat.
Maintaining the correct PSI supports even wear, better fuel efficiency, safer handling, and a comfortable ride.
Special considerations: temperature, load, and tire wear
Temperature changes affect tire pressure: for every roughly 10°F drop in ambient temperature, you can lose about 1 psi. Heavy loads, towing, and aggressive driving can justify higher targets per the placard. Regular checks after weather changes or long trips help ensure continued safety and performance.
Summary
In short, start with the vehicle’s recommended PSI, then check cold tires regularly, adjust for load and temperatures, and always rely on the placard for your exact targets. Proper inflation improves tire life, fuel economy, and safety on the road.
