Checking tire pressure (Focus Turnier 1)

You should only measure the air pressure in cold tires, because when driving, the tires heat up and the pressure increases. The consequence: you will get distorted values and, from experience, in most cases you will drive with too low tire pressure. If, with regular checks every three to four weeks, the tire pressure drops by 1.5% per month, then this is normal. If the tire loses more air, you should inspect it carefully: fermentation often occurs under the outer surface.

Cold Tire Pressure Ratings (bar)

Model: Sedan/Station wagon

Tire size*	Normal load up to 3 persons		Full load more than 3 persons
	ahead	behind	ahead	behind
175/70R14	2,2	2.2	2,2/2,4**	3,1
185/60R14	2,2	2,2	2,2/2,4**	3,1
195/60R15	2,2	2.2	2.2/2,3**	3,1
195/55R15	2,0	2,0	2,2/2,5**	3,1
205/50R16	2.2	2.2	2,2/2,4**	3,1
125/80R15***	4,2	4.2	4,2	4,2

* summer tires
** vehicles with diesel engine
*** emergency wheel. At continuous speeds above 160 km/h, increase the air pressure in all cases by 0.2 bar.

Don't forget to screw the protective caps onto the valves

Tire valves should always be closed with protective caps after checking the tire pressure. If dirt gets into the valve, the relative tightness will end - the tire will now constantly lose air. This is where the danger lies. Never drive with too low tire pressure - the tire temperature will rise excessively. Sooner or later, this will certainly cause the phenomena of delamination or rupture of the tires. And increased pressure (by about 0.2-0.3 bar) can be advantageous: the steering works more sensitively, the tires last longer and fuel consumption is slightly reduced. Disadvantage: the car rolls a little harder.