Dodge Ram: How to Check Tire Pressure

One of the most basic maintenance items you can do for your Dodge Ram is check the PSI on the tires. Learn how to do so here.

By Neftali Medina - June 25, 2015
Contributors: FDUauto

This article applies to the Dodge Ram (1994-present).

Your Dodge Ram is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) that will alert you when a tire loses too much air pressure. However, sometimes the sensors themselves can be damaged, resulting in the same alert. You can always ensure whether or not the tire needs air by checking the pressure with a gauge. Although some shops offer free air pressure checks, you can still do the same procedure in the comfort of your own home. Just use the following instructions.

Material Needed

  • Tire pressure gauge

Step 1 – Check the dashboard

When you start the car for the day, be sure to check the dashboard and see if the TPMS is showing a low pressure warning sign. If so, continue on to the following steps.

Figure 1. Low tire pressure warning.

Step 2 – Set aside your pressure reader

There are several types of pressure readers available on the market; however, a simple gauge will do the trick.

  • Pencil-type gauges: These are often the most common and cheapest type available. They mount to the valve stem and have a meter that pushes out when the air enters into it, which shows the amount of air in the tire.
  • Dial gauges: These are slightly more accurate as air is less likely to escape through their valves. These units use a dial meter to show how much pressure is left in the tire.
  • Digital gauges: These are often preferred by commercial shops as they offer quick and accurate readings.
Figure 2. A variety of tire pressure gauges are available.

Step 3 – Check the recommended tire pressure

Open the door and look down at the door jambs. You'll see a chart detailing the stock pressure required on your Dodge Ram tires. However, if you have larger than stock tires, the air pressure will vary. Use this chart as a point of reference to ensure the tires are not under-filled.

  • Figure 3. Locate the tire pressure chart.
  • Figure 4. Example of a tire pressure chart; may not apply to your vehicle.

Step 4 – Check the actual tire pressure

  • Loosen the valve stem cap by hand and place it aside.
  • Take the gauge and place it on-top of the valve stem.
  • Compare your readings with the tire chart.
  • Refill the air pressure if necessary.

Pro Tip

Check the tire pressure when the tires are cold to ensure the most accurate reading.

  • Figure 5. Remove the valve cap.
  • Figure 6. Check the air pressure.
  • Figure 7. Compare your results.

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