How do I check the tire pressure on my Lincoln vehicle?

Proper tire pressure is critical for even tread wear to optimize your vehicle's performance and handling. Low tire pressure can cause unnecessary wear on your tires and may be an indicator that you need new tires. Check your tires’ condition and pressure at least once a month for longer and better performance.

On average, tires lose one pound per square inch (psi) of pressure per month and lose an additional 1 psi for every 10-degree drop in outside temperature.

Before you Start

There are a few things you should do before starting:

1. Find the operating vehicle tire inflation pressure, which is normally lower than the maximum inflation pressure. It is found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label and is usually located on the driver’s door, door pillar.
2. Identify the maximum inflation pressure of each tire. This number is molded into the tire sidewall as required by the government.
3. Read the safety and roadside emergency information in your Owner’s Manual.

Checking Your Tires

1. To get an accurate pressure reading, your tires need to be read cold, meaning the vehicle has been parked for at least one hour in the shade. Checking in the early morning, when the ambient temperature is lowest, is optimal.  If you must check tire pressure when the tires are warm, remember that the pressures will read 4-6 psi higher than they would if checked cold.
2. Remove the tire valve cap, and place the tire pressure gauge on it firmly. Make sure you don’t hear any air leaking. A digital or dial gauge should give you a reading on the screen or dial; stick-type gauges have a stick that pops out the bottom—the highest pressure shown is your current tire pressure.
3. Remove the tire gauge, and then re-measure twice more for accuracy.
4. If the pressure is low, add air by placing the end of an air pump hose over the tire valve.  If you’re using a high-pressure air hose at a station, only fill the tire for five seconds, then stop. Lower-pressure personal air pumps can stay on for longer, especially if the tire is very low. Never leave the pump alone, it could overinflate the tire and cause damage.
5. Recheck the pressure. If the tire is overinflated, you can release air by pressing the valve inside the tire valve stem.
6. Once you have confirmed your tire is inflated to the proper level, replace the valve cap.
7. Repeat steps two through six for each of your remaining tires, including the spare.

Additional Information

What is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System?
What is the door jamb Safety Compliance Certification Label?