🚗 Tire Pressure Calculator

Convert tire pressure between PSI, bar, and kPa, and calculate ideal pressure for vehicles.

All Unit Conversions

PSI
32.0
Bar
2.21
kPa
220.6
Atmosphere
2.18
🎯 Recommended Tire Pressures by Vehicle Type
🚗
Compact Car
30-35 PSI
🚘
Mid-Size Sedan
32-36 PSI
🚙
SUV
35-40 PSI
🚚
Pickup Truck
35-45 PSI
🏍️
Motorcycle
28-42 PSI
🏎️
Sports Car
30-35 PSI
📊 Tire Pressure Reference Table
PSI Bar kPa Atmosphere Common Use
28 1.93 193.1 1.90 Low pressure / Motorcycle rear
30 2.07 206.9 2.04 Compact cars
32 2.21 220.6 2.18 Standard cars
35 2.41 241.3 2.38 SUVs / Light trucks
40 2.76 275.8 2.72 Heavy SUVs / Trucks
42 2.90 289.6 2.86 Motorcycle front
45 3.10 310.3 3.06 Heavy duty trucks
50 3.45 344.7 3.40 Commercial vehicles
📚 Tire Pressure Guide

🎯 Why Proper Tire Pressure Matters

  • Safety: Proper pressure ensures optimal tire contact with road
  • Fuel Economy: Correct pressure reduces rolling resistance
  • Tire Life: Prevents uneven wear and premature replacement
  • Performance: Improves handling and braking distance

📏 Understanding Pressure Units

  • PSI: Most common in North America (14.7 PSI = 1 atmosphere)
  • Bar: Common in Europe (1 bar ≈ 14.5 PSI)
  • kPa: Metric unit (100 kPa ≈ 14.5 PSI)
  • Atmosphere: Scientific unit (1 atm = 14.696 PSI)

🔧 How to Check Tire Pressure

  1. Check when tires are cold (not driven for 3+ hours)
  2. Remove valve cap and press gauge firmly on valve stem
  3. Read measurement and compare to recommended pressure
  4. Add or release air as needed
  5. Replace valve cap to prevent dirt and moisture

⚠️ Effects of Incorrect Pressure

Under-inflated (Low Pressure):
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Tire overheating
  • Uneven wear on edges
  • Poor handling
  • Risk of blowout
Over-inflated (High Pressure):
  • Harsh ride quality
  • Center tread wear
  • Reduced traction
  • Increased impact damage risk
  • Poor braking performance

💡 Pro Tips

  • Check pressure monthly and before long trips
  • Don't forget the spare tire
  • Pressure increases ~1 PSI per 10°F temperature rise
  • Always use manufacturer's recommended pressure (found on door jamb)
  • Consider load - increase pressure when carrying heavy loads
  • Keep a digital gauge in your vehicle for accuracy