Having optimal tire pressure in your Tesla is not just about getting the best range; it's a critical safety feature that impacts handling, braking, and tire longevity. Thankfully, Tesla makes it incredibly easy to monitor this vital information right from your mobile device. Let's dive into a comprehensive guide on how to check your PSI on the Tesla app!
Step 1: Get Started with the Tesla App – Your Command Center!
Alright, let's begin! The first thing you'll need is, of course, the Tesla mobile app installed on your smartphone. If you don't have it already, head over to your device's app store (App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android) and download it. Once installed, log in with your Tesla account credentials. This app is your central hub for everything related to your Tesla, from charging status to climate control, and yes, even tire pressure!
Step 2: Navigating to the Tire Pressure Display
Now that you're in the app, let's find that crucial tire pressure information.
Sub-heading 2.1: Locating the Vehicle Status
Open the Tesla App: Launch the Tesla app on your phone.
Select Your Vehicle: If you have multiple Teslas linked to your account, make sure you've selected the correct vehicle. You can usually swipe between vehicles at the top of the app's main screen.
Observe the Main Screen: On the app's main screen, you'll see a visual representation of your Tesla. This is your initial status overview.
Sub-heading 2.2: Accessing the Controls/Service Section
While the main screen provides a quick glance, for detailed tire pressure, you'll often need to dig a little deeper.
Look for "Controls" or "Service": Depending on your app version and vehicle model, you might see a "Controls" section or a "Service" icon. Tap on it. This area is where you access various vehicle settings and information.
Find the Tire Pressure Display: Within the "Controls" or "Service" section, look for an icon that resembles a tire or is explicitly labeled "Tire Pressures" or a similar phrase. Tap on this.
Step 3: Understanding the PSI Readings
Once you've accessed the tire pressure screen, you'll see a visual representation of your vehicle with each tire displaying a numerical value. This value is your tire pressure in PSI (pounds per square inch).
Sub-heading 3.1: Decoding the Numbers
Individual Tire Readings: Each tire will show its current PSI. Pay close attention to these numbers.
Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: Crucially, the app (and your vehicle's touchscreen) will also display your vehicle's recommended cold tire pressures. This is the target pressure you should aim for when your tires are cold (meaning the car hasn't been driven for a few hours). This recommended pressure can also be found on the Tire and Loading Information label located on the driver's side door pillar.
Why "Cold" Pressure Matters: As tires heat up from driving, the air inside expands, and the pressure increases. Checking when cold gives you the most accurate baseline.
Sub-heading 3.2: Interpreting Alerts and Colors
Low Tire Pressure Warning: If one or more tires are significantly under-inflated, you'll likely see an alert on your app and potentially a visual warning (often in orange) on the tire icon within the display. This also triggers the Tire Pressure indicator light on your car's touchscreen.
Hyphens Instead of Numbers: If you see "-- PSI" instead of a number, it means the sensor isn't currently reporting a reading. This often happens when the vehicle has been stationary for a while, as the sensors "sleep" to conserve battery. Driving for a short period (typically above 15 mph or 25 km/h) will usually wake them up and display the values.
Step 4: Taking Action – Inflating Your Tires
If your PSI readings are low, it's time to add some air!
Sub-heading 4.1: Preparing for Inflation
Use an Accurate Gauge: While your Tesla provides readings, it's always a good idea to have a reliable manual tire pressure gauge on hand for cross-referencing and precise adjustments.
Inflate When Cold: As mentioned, aim to inflate your tires when they are cold for the most accurate results.
Locate Your Valve Stems: Remove the valve caps from each tire.
Sub-heading 4.2: The Inflation Process
Add Air: Use an air compressor (many gas stations have them, or you can purchase a portable one) and firmly press the nozzle onto the valve stem.
Check as You Go: Add air in short bursts and frequently re-check the pressure with your gauge and the Tesla app.
Don't Over-Inflate (and Release Air if Needed): Be careful not to over-inflate. If you do, you can gently press the metal pin in the center of the valve stem to release air.
Repeat for All Tires: Ensure all four tires are inflated to the recommended cold tire pressure.
Step 5: Resetting the TPMS (If Necessary)
After adjusting your tire pressures, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light on your car's touchscreen might not turn off immediately.
Sub-heading 5.1: The Automatic Reset
Drive Your Tesla: The TPMS system typically needs to reactivate and register the new pressures. To do this, you'll need to drive your Tesla for a short period, generally above 15 mph (25 km/h) for a few minutes. The system will then auto-learn the new pressures, and the warning light should extinguish.
Sub-heading 5.2: Manual TPMS Reset (If Issues Persist)
In some cases, especially if you've replaced a sensor or wheels, you might need to manually reset the TPMS through the car's touchscreen.
On Your Tesla Touchscreen: Navigate to Controls > Service > Tire Pressure Monitor > Reset Sensors.
Confirm Wheel Size: Ensure the correct wheel size is selected before confirming the reset.
Perform a Road Test: After the reset, drive your Tesla at over 15 mph (25 km/h) for up to 20 minutes for the system to complete its auto-learning process. If the warning persists, it might indicate a fault with a sensor, and a service appointment with Tesla might be necessary.
Maintaining proper tire pressure is a simple yet crucial aspect of Tesla ownership that ensures your vehicle performs at its best and keeps you safe on the road. Make it a regular habit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to find the recommended PSI for my Tesla?
The recommended cold tire pressure for your specific Tesla model is found on the Tire and Loading Information label, located on the driver's side door pillar (visible when the driver's door is open). It's also displayed on your Tesla's touchscreen and in the mobile app.
How to check tire pressure without driving my Tesla?
While the Tesla app and touchscreen might show " -- PSI" when the car is stationary for a long time, the most accurate way to check without driving is to use a physical, accurate tire pressure gauge when the tires are cold.
How to know if my Tesla tire pressure is too low?
Your Tesla app will show the current PSI, and if it's significantly below the recommended cold tire pressure, it's too low. You'll also likely see a low tire pressure warning light on your Tesla's touchscreen.
How to reset the tire pressure warning light on my Tesla?
After inflating your tires to the recommended pressure, drive your Tesla above 15 mph (25 km/h) for a short period. The TPMS system will recalibrate, and the light should turn off automatically. If it persists, you can manually reset it via the touchscreen in Controls > Service > Tire Pressure Monitor > Reset Sensors.
How to change the unit of tire pressure display (PSI to Bar)?
On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to Controls > Display > Tire Pressure to select your preferred unit (PSI or Bar).
How to interpret a flashing tire pressure light on my Tesla?
If the tire pressure indicator light flashes for one minute whenever you power on your Tesla, it indicates a fault with the TPMS system itself, not just low pressure. You should contact Tesla Service for this.
How to account for temperature changes affecting tire pressure?
Tire pressure drops approximately 1 PSI for every 10° F (6° C) decrease in outside temperature. In colder weather, you may need to add air more frequently to maintain the recommended cold tire pressure.
How to know if my tire pressure sensors are working correctly?
If your Tesla consistently shows " -- PSI" for a tire even after driving, or if you get a TPMS malfunction warning (a flashing light at startup), it might indicate a sensor issue.
How to get the most accurate tire pressure reading?
Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold, meaning the car hasn't been driven for at least three hours or has only been driven for a mile or two.
How to avoid common tire pressure issues?
Regularly check your tire pressure (at least monthly), especially before long trips or significant temperature changes. This helps prevent under-inflation, which can lead to tire damage, reduced range, and compromised safety.
For more information on Tesla tire maintenance, watch this video:
