To reduce tyre pressure, you will need to release air from the tyre valve.
Reducing tyre pressure is a straightforward process often required for specific driving conditions like off-roading or simply to correct over-inflation. It involves carefully letting air out of the tyre's valve stem until the desired pressure is reached.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reducing Tyre Pressure
The process for letting air out of a tyre is simple and requires minimal tools. Here’s how to do it based on common practice:
- Locate and Remove the Valve Cap: Find the tyre valve stem, which is usually a short rubber or metal stem sticking out of the wheel rim. Unscrew and remove the valve cap. Keep the cap safe so you don't lose it.
- Check Current Tyre Pressure: Before releasing air, it's helpful to know your starting point. Use a tyre pressure gauge to measure the current pressure. Press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem. The gauge will show the pressure reading.
- Release Air: To release air, you need to press down on the small pin (the valve core) located in the centre of the valve stem.
- You can use a small object, such as a pen, a fingernail, or the end of a tyre pressure gauge, to press down on the valve stem pin.
- You will hear the sound of air escaping.
- Monitor Pressure and Repeat: Release air for a short period (a few seconds), then remove your object and use the tyre pressure gauge again to check the new pressure.
- Continue releasing air in short bursts and checking the tyre pressure gauge until the pressure reaches the recommended tyre pressure for your vehicle. This recommended pressure can typically be found on a sticker in the driver's side doorjamb, glove compartment, or in the vehicle owner's manual.
- Replace the Valve Cap: Once the correct pressure is achieved, screw the valve cap back onto the valve stem to protect it from dirt and moisture.
Tips for Accuracy
- Always use a reliable tyre pressure gauge for accurate readings.
- Release air gradually and check frequently to avoid under-inflating the tyre.
- Ensure tyres are cool when checking and adjusting pressure for the most accurate reading, as heat from driving increases pressure.
By following these steps, you can effectively reduce your tyre pressure to the desired level using basic tools.
