Last Updated on April 20, 2023 by Ossian Muscad
It’s a highly underrated factor, but having the right tire pressure is critical to having a safe, efficient, and comfortable ride. With a properly inflated tire, you’ll get longer life out of your tires, quicker steering response, better fuel efficiency, and a smoother ride than an improperly inflated tire.
To ensure that your tires are always in optimal condition, it’s essential to regularly check their air pressure with a tire pressure gauge. This article will discuss a tire pressure gauge and how to use it correctly for accurate readings.
What is a Tire Pressure Gauge?
It is a tool used to measure the amount of air pressure in your tires. It’s a handheld device that looks similar to a pen and is available in digital and analog versions. The two most common tire pressure gauges are the dial gauge and the digital gauge.
It is a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to measure your tires’ air pressure and ensure they are at the right PSI (pounds per square inch). Having it on hand will help you avoid costly tire issues due to over- or underinflation.
Benefits of Using a Tire Pressure Gauge
It can help you identify and correct air pressure issues before they become serious. Doing so will not only improve your vehicle’s performance but will also help you save money in the long run by preventing premature tire wear. With that said, here are some of the benefits that you can get when using a tire pressure gauge:
Portability
They are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry in your car or store in your garage. It’s also easy to use and can give accurate readings in seconds.
Convenience
Checking your tire pressure with a gauge is a simple task that you can do yourself, without needing to take your car to a mechanic. This level of convenience is especially beneficial when you’re constantly on the road.
Accurate Readings
It can provide precise readings of your tire pressure rather than relying on estimations made by eye or touch. So you can trust that the readings are accurate and reliable.
Extends Tire Lifespan
By monitoring and maintaining the proper tire pressure with a gauge, you can help extend the lifespan of your tires and prevent uneven tread wear. In addition, properly inflated tires also help improve your vehicle’s overall performance.
Ensures Safety
Properly inflated tires help ensure driving safety by improving handling and stability, reducing the risk of accidents due to under or over-inflated tires. That way, you can be sure that your tires are in optimal condition for every journey.
3 Types of Tire Pressure Gauges
There are three known types of tire pressure gauges: digital, stick-type, and dial-type tire pressure gauges.
Digital Tire Pressure Gauge
Digital tire pressure gauges feature a digital display screen that shows the precise reading of your tire pressure. They are easy to read; some models can store previous readings for easy comparison. However, they usually require batteries and are more expensive than other tire pressure gauges.
Stick-Type Tire Pressure Gauge
Stick-type tire pressure gauges are simple and inexpensive. They feature a stick-like design with a sliding indicator that measures your tire’s pressure. They are small, easy to carry, and do not require batteries. However, they can be prone to inaccuracies if not used correctly.
Dial-Type Tire Pressure Gauge
Dial-type tire pressure gauges are similar to stick-type gauges but feature a dial showing the tire pressure reading. They are more accurate than stick-type gauges and less expensive than digital ones. They are also easy to use and fit in your pocket or glove compartment. However, they can break easily if not handled with care.
Check Tire Pressure Using a Tire Pressure Gauge in 7 Steps
When it comes to checking tire pressure with a gauge, the process is simple. Here are seven steps to help you get started:
- Purchase a quality tire pressure gauge: You can find tire pressure gauges at most auto parts stores or online. There are two main variants of pressure gauges: digital and analog. Choose one that is easy for you to read and use.
- Check and determine the recommended tire pressure: The recommended tire pressure for your vehicle is usually found in your car’s owner’s manual or on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. The recommended pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
- Remove the valve cap: Unscrew the valve cap on the tire you want to check. That way, you can attach the pressure gauge.
- Press the gauge onto the valve stem: Press the tire pressure gauge’s end onto the tire’s valve stem. You should hear a hissing sound as air escapes from the tire and enters the gauge.
- Read the pressure: The gauge will display the tire pressure in PSI. Compare the reading to the recommended pressure for your vehicle. Add air to the tire if the reading is lower than the recommended pressure. If the reading is higher, release some air from the tire.
- Repeat for other tires: Check the pressure of all four tires using the same steps. If any tires are lower than the recommended pressure, add air to the tire until it reaches the recommended pressure.
- Replace the valve caps: After checking the tire pressure, replace the valve caps on each tire.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your tires are properly inflated, which can improve your car’s handling and fuel efficiency and extend the life of your tires.
Record Your Findings Using a Low-code Platform
To make it easier to keep track of your tire pressure readings, use a low-code platform like DATAMYTE. With DATAMYTE, you can quickly create an app to monitor your tire pressure readings and alert you when they’re low. This can save you time and money and provide peace of mind knowing that your tires are properly inflated.
DATAMYTE is a quality management platform with low-code capabilities. For example, the DataMyte Digital Clipboard is a low-code workflow automation software with a built-in checklist and smart form builder. This feature and its drag-and-drop interface allow you to create any checklist and form template you need.
To create a checklist or form template using DATAMYTE, follow these steps:
- Log in to DATAMYTE and navigate to the ‘Checklist’ module.
- Click “Create Checklist” to create a new checklist or form template.
- Add a Title to the checklist or form template; select the category it belongs to.
- Click “Add Item” to add items to the checklist or form template.
- Add appropriate descriptions to each item, the type of answer it requires, and other relevant specifications, such as reference documents, acceptance criteria, or potential limits.
- Assign the personnel responsible for completing the checklist.
- Indicate any required approvals from other relevant personnel, such as supervisors or quality assurance managers.
- Save your checklist; it will now be available on any device. You can also print a physical copy of your checklist.
DATAMYTE also lets you conduct layered process audits, a systematic review of critical process steps. This auditing method focuses on the areas with the highest risk of failure or non-compliance. By conducting LPA using DATAMYTE, you can effectively identify and correct defects before they escalate.
With DATAMYTE, you have the perfect solution for creating and implementing a tire pressure gauge monitoring system. Its low-code platform and powerful workflow automation capabilities make developing, deploying, and monitoring your quality processes easy. Book a demo with us today to learn how DATAMYTE can help you manage your quality management processes.
Conclusion
When checking tires and getting the most accurate readings, a tire pressure gauge is an essential tool. Knowing how to use one effectively can save you time and money and improve your vehicle’s safety and performance. DATAMYTE’s low-code platform provides a convenient way to create and store tire pressure readings, making monitoring and maintaining proper tire pressure easier.
