Do forecourt tyre pumps underread?
I have always monitored tyre pressures of my cars with consideration to safety and economy. Lately however, I am continually baffled with the readings that I record having inflated tyres with a preset electric pump when comparing with a small hand held digital reader and a manual 'pen'.
The two hand held devices always register less than the preset pump (never the same reading either) and are at least 10% under if not more. I have avoided forecourt tyre pressure machines due to their reputation of inaccuracy.
Should I accept the pump has measured correctly or is there a way to obtain an accurate tyre pressure, any thoughts?
The two hand held devices always register less than the preset pump (never the same reading either) and are at least 10% under if not more. I have avoided forecourt tyre pressure machines due to their reputation of inaccuracy.
Should I accept the pump has measured correctly or is there a way to obtain an accurate tyre pressure, any thoughts?
Asked on 10 September 2012 by CallawayDriver
Answered by
Honest John
In my experience, preset pumps are never ever accurate.
From choosing the right tyre to what to do when it goes wrong - we have the answers.
Tyre News And AdviceSimilar questions
I have a 2023 Kia Sportage hybrid. I notice that the tyre pressures for both the hybrid and non hybrid cars are quoted as 35PSI normal load and 40PSI for 4 passengers. The hybrid though weighs 1715kgs...
I purchased a new VW Polo Match a couple of months ago. I'm finding the ride is much harder than the VW Golf Mk7 I had before. The tyre pressures for the new Polo are 36PSI all round. The Golf had tyre...
When I have finished using my Ford Kuga for transporting heavy loads - with a trailer - does it matter if I continue to use the car for a day/week or two for local suburban driving before deflating the...
Elsewhere on 
