The Ultimate Guide to Ford Tire Pressure & Maintenance

Keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the simplest, most effective ways to improve fuel economy, handling, safety, and tire life. It only takes a few minutes a month—yet it’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Here’s everything Ford owners need to know.

Why Proper Tire Pressure Matters

Correctly inflated tires deliver:

• Better fuel economy (underinflated tires can reduce MPG by up to 3%)
• Shorter stopping distances and improved traction
• More responsive steering and a smoother ride
• Even tread wear for longer tire life (up to 25% more miles)

Recommended Tire Pressure for Popular Ford Models (2023–2026)

Always verify the exact specification on your driver’s door jamb sticker or in your owner’s manual—load, tire size, and trim can affect the number.

Tip: When towing or carrying heavy loads, increase rear pressure (and sometimes front) according to the chart in your owner’s manual.

Signs Your Tires Need Attention

Watch for:

• Uneven or rapid tread wear

• Bulges, cuts, cracks, or embedded objects

• Vibration while driving

• Pulling to one side

• TPMS warning light

• Frequent pressure loss (>3–4 PSI per month)

How to Check Tire Pressure (The Right Way)

1. Check when tires are cold (driven <1 mile or parked =3 hours).

2. Remove valve cap.

3. Press an accurate gauge firmly onto the valve stem.

4. Compare reading to door jamb spec.

5. Repeat on all four tires + spare (if full-size).

6. Reinstall valve caps snugly.

Pro tip: Invest in a quality digital gauge ($15–30)—the stick-type gauges at gas stations are often inaccurate.

How to Add or Release Air

• Adding: Use a compressor or gas-station air hose. Add in short bursts and re-check.
• Releasing: Gently press the pin in the center of the valve stem with a key or tool.

Understanding Your Ford’s TPMS

Most 2008+ Fords use direct TPMS with sensors in each wheel. The warning light means at least one tire is =25% below placard pressure. After correcting pressure, drive 10–15 minutes above 20 mph to reset the light (or use the reset procedure in your owner’s manual).

Seasonal Temperature Effect

For every 10°F drop in temperature, tires lose ~1 PSI. Check monthly and especially before winter and summer.

Bonus Tire Care Tips

• Rotate every 6,000–8,000 miles (or every oil change)
• Check tread depth with a penny (Lincoln’s head upside down—if you can see the top of his head, replace)
• Alignment check if you notice uneven wear or pulling
• Replace tires when tread reaches 4/32" for all-season or 6/32" for winter tires

When to See the Pros

While checking pressure is easy, professional service catches issues you might miss.

At John Kennedy Ford in Conshohocken, PA, our Ford-certified technicians offer:

• Free tire pressure checks and inflation
• Computerized rotations and balancing
• TPMS sensor service and repair
• Full tire inspections and replacements with genuine Ford and major-brand tires

Why Choose Professional Tire Services

Drive safer, save money, and get the most out of your Ford—schedule your tire service today at John Kennedy Ford!