Tyre pressure: table with guide values by tyre size

The correct tyre pressure is on the sticker in the door frame, on the B-pillar, in the fuel filler flap or in the vehicle handbook. There you will find the target pressure for the stated tyre size and load. The following table contains only guide values and does not replace the sticker. We show where to read the pressure, when and how to check it, and what the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) means. Measure when tyres are cold to obtain comparable values.

Briefly answered: tyre pressure

How much tyre pressure does my car need?

The correct value depends on tyre size and load. It is on the sticker in the door frame, in the fuel filler flap or in the vehicle handbook. The table below shows typical guide values but does not replace the sticker.

Where do I find the correct tyre pressure?

On the sticker on the B-pillar or in the door frame, in the fuel filler flap or in the vehicle handbook. The sticker states values for partial load and full load, often separately for front and rear axle. The maximum pressure on the tyre sidewall is not meant.

When do I measure the tyre pressure?

Measure when tyres are cold, i.e. before driving or after a few kilometres. Warm tyres show about 0.2 to 0.3 bar more. Do not let air out then. The values on the sticker refer to cold tyres.

How often should I check the tyre pressure?

At least once a month and before long journeys. In autumn and winter, more frequent checking is advisable, as the pressure changes with temperature changes. For every 10 degrees Celsius, the tyre pressure changes by about 0.1 bar.

What does the tyre pressure warning light mean?

The yellow warning light with tyre cross-section and exclamation mark indicates that you should check the tyre pressure. If it lights up continuously, measure the pressure and adjust it. If it flashes at start and then lights up continuously, this often indicates a system fault.

How much psi is 2.5 bar?

2.5 bar corresponds to about 36 psi. The conversion is: 1 bar = about 14.5 psi. Further examples: 2.2 bar = 32 psi, 2.8 bar = 41 psi, 3.0 bar = 44 psi.

Updated: 08.10.2026

Where is the correct tyre pressure stated?

The correct tyre pressure is on the sticker in the door frame, on the B-pillar, in the fuel filler flap or in the vehicle handbook. It applies to the tyre size and load stated there, often separately for front and rear axle and for partial load and full load. The maximum pressure on the tyre sidewall is not meant. Always use the vehicle sticker and not the values on the tyre.

Tyre pressure table: guide values by tyre size and load

The following guide values apply to cold tyres and do not replace the sticker in the vehicle. They show typical pressure ranges by vehicle class and example tyre size.

Vehicle class	Example tyre size	Partial load (bar)	Full load (bar)	Partial load (psi)
Small car	175/65 R14	2.1–2.3	2.4–2.7	30–33
Compact class	205/55 R16	2.2–2.5	2.5–2.9	32–36
Mid-size / estate	225/50 R17	2.3–2.6	2.6–3.0	33–38
SUV / van	235/55 R18	2.4–2.8	2.7–3.2	35–41
Transporter (C tyres)	205/65 R16C	according to sticker	according to sticker	–

The values apply to cold tyres. Front and rear axle as well as the spare wheel may differ; observe the sticker. Conversion: 1 bar = 14.5 psi.

Temperature, load and season

Measure the tyre pressure when tyres are cold, before driving or after a few kilometres. For every 10 degrees Celsius, the pressure changes by about 0.1 bar. Check at least once a month and before long journeys. In autumn and winter, more frequent checking is advisable. At full load, higher values often apply; observe the details on the sticker for partial load and full load.

Checking and adjusting tyre pressure: step by step

Check the tyres when cold, i.e. before driving or after a few kilometres.
Read the target pressure from the sticker and observe the load.
Unscrew the valve cap and attach the filling hose.
Read the current pressure and adjust it to the target pressure.
Screw the valve cap back on and check all four wheels as well as the spare wheel.
On vehicles with TPMS, confirm or initialise the new pressure according to the vehicle handbook.

Too little or too much pressure: the consequences

Too little pressure increases fuel consumption and wear.
Too little pressure leads to greater heating of the tyre and a longer braking distance.
Too much pressure reduces the contact area and comfort.
Too much pressure can lead to uneven wear in the centre of the tyre.

Tyre pressure and TPMS

TPMS stands for tyre pressure monitoring system. Since November 2014, it has been mandatory for all newly registered passenger cars in the EU. A direct system measures pressure and temperature via sensors in the wheel and transmits to the vehicle (433 MHz). An indirect system uses the ABS wheel speed sensors and has no sensors in the wheel. The warning light shows a yellow symbol with tyre cross-section and exclamation mark. If it lights up continuously, check the tyre pressure. If it flashes at start and then lights up continuously, this often indicates a system fault; then the vehicle handbook or a specialist workshop can help.

If the warning light lights up continuously, check the tyre pressure and adjust it.
If the light flashes at start and then lights up continuously, this often indicates a system fault. Consult the vehicle handbook or a specialist workshop.
After a tyre or wheel change, some vehicles may require the system to be reset or taught in.

At Electronicx you will find replacement TPMS sensors (433 MHz) for many vehicles. Select by make, model and year of manufacture. The teach-in process depends on the manufacturer.

Frequently asked questions about tyre pressure

Can I continue driving with too little tyre pressure?

Driving with too little pressure increases fuel consumption, wear and heating of the tyre. The braking distance can become longer. Check the tyre pressure and adjust it promptly before continuing to drive.

Does the tyre pressure also apply to winter tyres?

Yes, the target pressure stated on the sticker also applies to winter tyres, provided the tyre size matches. If the size differs, the vehicle handbook or a specialist workshop states the suitable value. The maximum pressure on the tyre sidewall is not meant.

What about the spare wheel?

The spare or emergency wheel often requires a higher pressure than the normal wheels. The exact value is on the sticker in the vehicle. Check this value with every tyre pressure check.

Do motorcycles, trailers and caravans have their own values?

Yes, separate tyre pressure specifications apply to motorcycles, trailers and caravans. They are stated in the respective handbook or on a sticker on the vehicle. Use these details instead of the passenger car table.