When should tire pressure be measured for accuracy?

Measuring tire pressure for accuracy should ideally be done when the tire is cold. This is because driving causes tires to heat up, which increases the air temperature inside the tire and can lead to an inflated pressure reading. As the air heats up, it expands, resulting in a higher pressure reading than what is actually present when the tire is cold.

When a tire is cold, it reflects the true air pressure that’s present without any influence from heat generated during driving. It's generally recommended to check tire pressure after the vehicle has been parked for several hours or when it has been driven less than a mile at moderate speeds, ensuring a more accurate assessment of the tire's inflation level and overall safety.