PSI stands for “Pounds per Square Inch.” It’s a unit of measurement used to quantify the air pressure inside a tire. Essentially, it tells you how much air is in your tires.
When you see a recommended PSI for your tires (often found on a sticker in the driver’s side door jamb or in the vehicle’s manual), it’s the manufacturer’s suggested amount of air pressure that should be in each tire for optimal performance and safety. Maintaining the correct PSI helps ensure your tires wear evenly, your vehicle handles properly, and you get better fuel efficiency.
For example, if the recommended PSI for your car’s tires is 32, it means the manufacturer suggests there should be 32 pounds of air pressure in each square inch of the tire. Checking and adjusting your tire pressure regularly is a simple but important part of vehicle maintenance.