You have packed your gear and planned your route, and your 4WD is all set for the trip. But before you hit the road, have you checked your tyre pressures? It might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it plays a massive role in how well your vehicle handles, how comfortable your drive is, and even how much fuel you go through.
Most 4WD owners only change their tyre pressure once and assume it suits all their driving requirements, but that is not the case. The recommended tyre pressures for 4WDs depend on vehicle load, road conditions, and driving destination. Whether you're driving around town or setting off on a long highway trip, having the right tyre pressure can make all the difference. Let's go over why it matters and how to get it right.
Why Is Tyre Pressure Important for 4WDs?
Most people don't realise just how much tyre pressure affects the way their 4WD drives. It's not just about keeping air in the tyres—it directly affects handling, braking, fuel efficiency, and how long your tyres last.
If your tyres have too much air, they won't grip the road properly, making your ride stiff and uncomfortable. You'll also find your stopping distance increases. Because the centre of the tyre takes most of the wear, they won't last as long before needing to be replaced.
Tyre performance suffers when they are underinflated because this creates additional drag, which makes your engine labour more and raises your fuel expenses. You'll also find your stopping distance increases. Because underinflated tyres wear unevenly—with the outer edges wearing faster—it won’t be long before they need to be replaced. The essential nature of adjusting tyre pressure depends on your current driving terrain because 4WD vehicles are designed to handle different surfaces.
Choosing the Right Tyre Pressure for On-Road Driving
What's the correct tyre pressure for your 4WD on the road? Well, that depends on a few things—your vehicle, the type of tyres you're using, and how much weight you're carrying.
The easiest way to find the correct pressure is to check the placard inside the driver's door or look it up in the owner's manual. For everyday bitumen driving, most 4WDs should run between 30 and 36 PSI when the tyres are cold.
Here's a rough guide:
- Light load (just a driver and a light pack): 32-34 PSI
- Heavy load (extra passengers, gear, roof racks): 36-40 PSI
- Towing (trailer, caravan, or heavy cargo): 38-42 PSI
- The best time to check your tyre pressure is when your tyres are cold. Once you start driving, the air inside heats up and expands, giving you an inaccurate reading.
The 4 PSI Rule: Easy Way to Get the Right Pressure
Not sure if your tyres are inflated correctly? The 4 PSI rule is an easy way to check and adjust your pressure.
Here's what to do:
- Pump your tyres up to the manufacturer's recommended cold pressure.
- Drive for about 20-30 minutes, so they warm up.
- Check the pressure again.
- You've got it right if it's risen by about 4 PSI.
- If it's gone up by more than 4 PSI, they were too soft—add some air.
- If it's gone up by less than 4 PSI, your starting pressure was too high—let a little air out.
- This trick helps fine-tune your tyre pressure for better handling, improved fuel economy, and longer tyre life.
Common Tyre Pressure Mistakes
Even experienced 4WD owners make common tyre pressure mistakes. Since your tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, their pressure is essential for safety and performance.
Here are some of the most common tyre pressure mistakes to avoid:
- Not checking pressure regularly (you should check once a month)
- Forgetting to adjust for extra weight
- Relying on service station air pumps (while convenient, they aren’t always reliable due to potential gauge inaccuracies, damage, and misuse)
- Checking pressure only after driving
- Ignoring the spare tyre
- Over-inflating for better fuel economy
- Running under-inflated tyres for comfort
- Not adjusting for different terrains
Keep Your 4WD in Top Shape with the Right Maintenance
Keeping your tyre pressure in check is just one part of looking after your 4WD. Regular inspections, servicing, and general maintenance all play a significant role in keeping your vehicle safe and performing at its best.
At Tyrepower, we offer expert advice, a wide range of tyres, and professional services to keep your 4WD performing at its best. Whether it's a simple pressure check, new tyres, or a full service, we're here to help. Find your nearest Tyrepower store offering this service and make sure your 4WD is road-trip ready!
