How Accurate Are Pressure Gauges at Garage Forecourts?

Q: How often are pressure gauges at petrol stations calibrated?  I have noticed differences between readings at two different garages.

Trading Standards dictate that all motorists have the right to expect an accurate pressure reading (when they have paid for the seervice), and that all gauges should undergo regular recalibration. It is recommended that these checks take place every six months, but local officials lack the resources to check.

Another thing to note is that vehicle handbooks provide ‘ideal’ pressure levels for cold tyres. However, when you drive to the garage, your tyres warm up and the pressure inside them increases. This means that when you fill up your tyres to the desired level at a petrol station, you are likely underinflating them , since the pressure will drop when the vehicle is not in use.

The best solution is to purchase a tyre pressure gauge that you can use at home when your tyres are cold.