Tyre pressures for holidays and a full boot

A heavy load may require different pressures from normal use. Use the vehicle label or handbook, not generic figures found online.

Find the right figure for your vehicle

Check the label on the door, fuel flap or in the handbook, depending on the model. The table may give different pressures by axle, load and speed. If you are travelling with luggage and passengers, use the row for that configuration. Do not use the figure on the tyre sidewall as the normal inflation pressure: it serves a different purpose.

Measure the pressure when the tyres are cold, following the manufacturer’s definition and conditions. Driving heat changes the reading; do not let air out of a hot tyre to match the cold-pressure figure. If you are already travelling and need an urgent check, consult the handbook or ask a professional how to interpret the reading.

Check the tyres and load too

Visually inspect every tyre for cuts, bulges, foreign objects or uneven wear. If you find damage or very low pressure, do not set off on a long journey: get assistance. Check that the load is secured and distributed, and does not exceed the vehicle limits; correct pressure cannot compensate for an excessive or unstable load.

Check the age and condition of the spare wheel or repair kit supplied for your model. If the spare has a specific pressure, use its dedicated label and follow the fitting and speed instructions. Do not drive fast on a space-saver or temporary tyre beyond the manufacturer’s limits.

Check again during the journey

If the pressure warning light comes on, stop somewhere safe and check without exposing yourself to traffic. After inflation, you may need to reset the monitoring system as described in the handbook. If the warning returns, the tyre keeps losing air or the car vibrates, do not continue at high speed; contact a tyre specialist.

With a full car, use the “full load” row on the label; it may specify different pressures for the front and rear axles. Inflate before setting off, with cold tyres. The maximum figure on the tyre sidewall is not the pressure to use: follow the vehicle table.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers chapter-based study, timed exam quizzes and review of mistakes; for pressures and loads, use your vehicle’s figures.