How to Find Your Vehicle’s Recommended Tire Pressure in Lynchburg, VA

What Is the Recommended Tire Pressure for Your Vehicle?

Proper tire inflation is an important part of proper vehicle maintenance. However, if you're not well-versed in auto jargon, you might have some questions. What does it mean to keep tires inflated properly? How do you check tire pressure and know if it’s right? How do you inflate your tires? You'll learn all of that and more here.

Vehicles that roll off the assembly line are in optimal operating conditions. The angle at which your wheels are set and the air in your tires can all impact how well your vehicle performs, so automakers like Mercedes-Benz provide you with all the information you need to maximize its performance. Depending on your Mercedes-Benz model, there are three places to check for recommended tire pressure.

Door Jamb on the Driver's Side: Most modern vehicles have a sticker in the driver's door jamb that lists important information about the vehicle, such as weight restrictions, seating arrangements, and the tire pressure of the front, rear, and spare tire.

Owner's Manual: In addition to the recommended tire pressure, your vehicle's owner's manual can provide even more information about how to operate and maintain it.

Mercedes-Benz Guides App: If you own a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, the company makes it simple to keep it running smoothly. Downloading the Mercedes-Benz Guides on the Apple or Google Play Stores is the easiest way to do so. The app offers everything you need to know about your vehicle, such as owner's manuals, vehicle health checks, warranty resources, and more.

Steps to Check Your Tire Pressure

If you are looking for a tire pressure gauge, purchase it from the Mercedes-Benz of Lynchburg parts center or your local auto parts store. You can find one near the air compressor at most gas stations or charging stations. Here are the steps for checking your tire pressure.

1. Take the air valve cap off the tire and set it aside. For safety, you can also place it in your pocket.
2. The tire gauge should be placed against the valve stem and held there for a few seconds. The needle might need to be pushed in fully by applying pressure.
3. Make sure the gauge number matches the manufacturer's recommendation.
4. Depending on the reading, you may need to add or release air.
5. If air is trapped inside the valve stem, use a flat-head screwdriver to press down on the metal pin in the center.
6. Adding air is as simple as pressing the air dispenser nozzle against the valve stem. When adding air, add short bursts and check the pressure between them.
7. You should repeat this process for each tire.

How Does Correct Tire Pressure Affect Tire Performance?

Maintaining the correct air pressure in your vehicle's tires is crucial to its performance and safety. Properly inflated tires ensure even weight distribution, extend their life, reduce rolling resistance, and boost fuel efficiency.

Temperature changes of 10°F typically result in tires losing or gaining 1 PSI. That's why checking your air pressure is advised every time you fill up your gas tank. It is important to remember that there are differences in tire pressure between the front and back axles of many vehicles. You should also check the tire pressure in your spare.

Types of Cars and Their Recommended Tire Pressures

The ideal tire pressure depends on the size and type of your vehicle. The recommended pressure for different vehicles is listed below.

• Small cars like sedans and hatchbacks usually require 30 to 35 PSI tire pressure. In this way, you will have adequate road grip and drive comfortably.
• Typically, medium-size vehicles like SUVs and crossovers need 35 to 40 PSI of tire pressure. This helps support these vehicles' additional weight and size, in addition to ensuring stability and control.
• Because of their heavier loads and towing capacities, vehicles such as UTEs, vans, trucks, and 4x4s require higher tire pressures. These vehicles can handle pressures up to 45 psi.

While these guidelines are an excellent place to start, your vehicle manufacturer will determine the ideal tire pressure. Remember that factors such as load and driving conditions can affect the ideal tire pressure for your vehicle. Cold temperatures or heavy loads can lower tire pressure, while hot weather can increase it. Thus, it is crucial to maintain your tires' effective performance and long-term durability by regularly checking and adjusting them based on these factors.

TPMS and Tire Pressure

The TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) monitors the pressure inside your tire using a direct sensor or by combining the sensor with other existing sensors in your vehicle. When the pressure drops below the legally required limit (25% of recommended pressure), an indicator light resembling a U with an exclamation point will appear on the dashboard. You should check your tire pressure as soon as you see this TPMS light turned on, and any adjustments that need to be made should be made as soon as possible.

Additional Tire Care at Mercedes-Benz of Lynchburg

Maintaining the proper tire pressure, as well as tire rotation and wheel alignment, will help keep your tires in good condition. If you need routine tire services and care, schedule an appointment with the Mercedes-Benz of Lynchburg service center.