Tyre Pressures

🚗 1. Passenger Vehicles (Sedans, Hatchbacks, SUVs)

Load	Tyre Pressure (kPa)
Normal Load	200–240 kPa
Fully Loaded	240–270 kPa

Precautions:

• Check pressures when tyres are cold (vehicle not driven for 3+ hours).
• Underinflation = poor fuel economy, faster wear.
• Overinflation = reduced traction, uneven wear.

---

🚐 2. Light Commercial Vehicles (e.g. bakkies, vans)

Load	Tyre Pressure (kPa)
Light Load	250–280 kPa
Heavy Load	300–340 kPa

Precautions:

• Rear tyres may need higher pressure due to load distribution.
• Always adjust when carrying tools, cargo, or towing.

---

🚜 3. Agricultural Tractors (Field Use)

Application	Tyre Pressure (kPa)
Field Work (Low Speed)	80–120 kPa
Transport (Road Use)	160–200 kPa

Precautions:

• Lower pressure in the field = better traction, reduced soil compaction.
• Inflate before transport to reduce tyre wear and overheating.

---

🚛 4. 5-Tonne Transport Vehicles (Medium Duty Trucks)

Load	Tyre Pressure (kPa)
Empty	450–500 kPa
Fully Loaded	600–650 kPa

Precautions:

• Dual rear tyres should be evenly inflated.
• Uneven pressure = poor stability and blowouts.

---

🚚 5. Heavy Duty Vehicles / Long-Haul Trucks

Tyre Position	Tyre Pressure (kPa)
Steer Axle	620–700 kPa
Drive Axle	700–750 kPa
Trailer Axle	620–750 kPa

Precautions:

• Use tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) for large fleets.
• Pressure varies based on load, speed, and tyre ply rating.

---

🚛 6. Trailers (Farm, Commercial)

Trailer Type	Tyre Pressure (kPa)
Light Utility	250–300 kPa
Farm Trailer	300–400 kPa
Heavy Transport Trailer	500–700 kPa

Precautions:

• Check trailer pressure before every trip.
• Ensure tyres are rated for the load and speed intended.

---

🏗️ 7. Backhoes & Loaders (Construction Machinery)

Use	Tyre Pressure (kPa)
Light Digging / Yard Work	180–250 kPa
Heavy Lifting / Hauling	300–350 kPa
Road Travel	350–400 kPa

Precautions:

• Adjust pressure to the attachment in use (e.g., bucket vs breaker).
• Daily inspection critical to avoid downtime or accidents.

---

✅ General Precautionary Measures for All Categories:

1. Check pressure at least once a week or before long hauls.
2. Use a reliable pressure gauge; digital is preferred.
3. Check valve stems for leaks or damage.
4. Monitor for bulges, cuts, or irregular wear.
5. Never “bleed” tyres after a long trip — hot tyres give false high readings.
6. Match the pressure to the load, speed rating, terrain, and season.
7. Always follow tyre ply rating and load index recommendations.