Using a Tyre Air Pump at Petrol Stations: A Step-by-Step Guide

Using a Tyre Air Pump at Petrol Stations: A Step-by-Step Guide

The health of your car's tyres plays a pivotal role in ensuring a safe and efficient drive. Correct tyre pressure is more than just about preventing a flat tyre—it has a direct influence on your vehicle's performance, safety, and even fuel consumption. Here's why maintaining the right tyre pressure is crucial:

• Safety First: Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can compromise your vehicle's grip on the road, leading to reduced stability, especially in wet conditions. This can increase the risk of skidding, aquaplaning, or even a blowout.
• Fuel Efficiency: Properly inflated tyres can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3%. Over time, this can lead to significant savings at the pump.
• Tyre Lifespan: Tyres with the correct pressure wear down more evenly, ensuring a longer lifespan and saving you money in the long run.
• Optimal Performance: Correct tyre pressure ensures that your car handles as it should, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.

Given its significance, it's surprising how often tyre pressure is overlooked. Regular checks, especially before long journeys or during seasonal changes, can make all the difference. If you're unsure about how to maintain the right pressure, our step-by-step guide below on using a tyre air pump at petrol stations is here to help.

Our step-by-step guide 

1. Safety First: Park your car safely, away from oncoming traffic. If there's a queue, patiently wait your turn from inside your vehicle.
2. Check Recommended Tyre Pressure: Know your car's ideal tyre pressure beforehand. This information is typically found in your vehicle's manual, inside the door jamb, or within the fuel flap, but also in the KnowYourCar app (underneath the picture of the vehicle).
3. Protect Your Hands: Most stations provide plastic or rubber gloves either at the tyre pump or fuel pumps. We recommend using these; they'll keep your hands clean and free from grime.
4. Dust Cap Removal: Before you start the pump or make a payment, unscrew the dust caps from the tyre valves. Store them in a pocket or a safe place so they don't get misplaced.
5. Set the Pressure: Use the digital panel or dial on the air machine to set your desired tyre pressure. Adjust with the "+" and "-" buttons as needed. Choose between BAR or PSI, depending on the tyre pressure information you have. The machine will look something like this:
   
6. Payment: If the pump is coin-operated or requires a fee, now's the time to pay.
7. Attaching the Nozzle: Take the air hose to your first tyre. Firmly push the nozzle onto the tyre valve. You should hear a subtle hissing sound, signifying the air is flowing. If you hear a loud rush of air, reposition the nozzle for a better seal.
8. Inflation: The machine will inflate the tyre to your set pressure. Listen for a beep or a sound from the machine to know when it's done.
9. Check and Adjust: If you've brought along a manual tyre pressure gauge, now's the time to double-check. If you've over-inflated, use the tiny pin in the centre of the valve to release a bit of air.
10. Nozzle Removal: With the tyre properly inflated, pull the nozzle off sharply.
11. Repeat for All Tyres: Use the same procedure for every tyre. Remember, your spare tyre (if you have one) needs attention too!
12. Secure Your Tyres: Once you've finished with all tyres, don't forget to screw the dust caps back on!