How to Check Tyre Pressure & Tread Depth (Beginner Guide)

Tyres affect everything — fuel economy, braking, cornering, even safety in the wet.
Checking them takes 60 seconds and can save your life.

1. Find the Correct Tyre Pressure

Look at:

• Driver’s door jamb

• Car manual

• Petrol flap on some cars

Most cars: 32–38 PSI.

2. Use a Tyre Gauge

Check pressure when tyres are cold, not hot from driving.

Insert gauge → read PSI.

3. Inflate or Deflate as Needed

Use air stations at servos.

Keep all four tyres even.

4. Check Tread Depth

Legal minimum is 1.5mm in Australia.
Use:

• A tread depth gauge

• Or the “20c coin test”

If the border of the 20c coin is fully visible → tyre is worn out.

5. Check for Uneven Wear

Indicates:

• Wheel alignment issue

• Incorrect pressure

• Suspension wear

6. Don’t Forget the Spare Tyre

Check it too — you’ll regret it otherwise.

📘 SIMPL Mechanic For Beginners