PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Cars & Other Vehicles
Cars
Car Maintenance and Repair
Tires and Suspension
How to Let Air Out of a Tire Download Article Co-authored by Howard Fleischmann
Last Updated: November 19, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article
Letting the Air Out of Vehicle Tires
|
Deflating a Bike Tire
|
Video
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Howard Fleischmann. Howard Fleischmann is an Automotive Tire and Repair Specialist and the CEO of Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair, with ten locations throughout Phoenix, Glendale, Yuma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. Howard specializes in full-service auto repair and tire replacement and care for domestic/imported vehicles and large trucks. Howard’s dedication to Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair has earned their team multiple awards and features including the 2021 Phoenix Magazine AZ State 48 “Best of the Best!”, the 2020 “Best of Phoenix” in Auto Repair, the 2013 Master SBD award, the 2013 National “Top Shop” award by Tire Review, the 2012 Diversity Champions Phx Business Journal, the 2009 BBB Ethics award, the 2008 Phx Chamber of Commerce Impact Award -” Small Business of the Year”, and the 2008 ASU Spirit of Enterprise award. Howard is often referred to as “The Car Guy” for local TV stations and is a regular on TV’s Channel 3 Sunday, Good Morning Arizona monthly. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 346,196 times.
If your tires are overfilled with air or you need to transport them, you may want to deflate them. Both vehicle tires and bike tires have valves located in them that control the flow of air in and out of the tire. Once you find the valve stem, letting the air out of them is a breeze as long as you follow the right steps.
How to Deflate a Tire
Locate the valve near the middle of the tire between the spokes. Twist the cap counterclockwise to remove it. You should see a thin metal pin in the center of the valve. Use the tip of a screwdriver or any other small, thin tool to press on this metal pin. Air will shoot out of the valve when you apply pressure to it.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 2:
Letting the Air Out of Vehicle Tires
Download Article
1 Locate the valve on your tires.[1]X Expert Source Howard FleischmannAutomotive Tire & Repair SpecialistExpert Interview The valve is usually found between the spokes near the middle of your tire. The valve stem should look like a short 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) tube protruding from your tires. It will usually have a black or metal cap on the end of the stem.[2]XResearch source
The cap on the stem keeps dirt and dust off your valve.
2 Rotate the cap on the valve counterclockwise to remove it. Removing the cap on the valve will reveal the metallic part of the valve. The valve looks like a round hole with a pin in the center of it.[3]XResearch source
Once you remove the cap, put it safely aside in a plastic bag so you don't lose it.
Advertisement
3 Check the pressure on your tires. Attach a pressure gauge onto the valve on your tires and screw it into place. It should give you a readout for your tire pressure in pounds per square inch, or PSI. Check the owner's manual to see what the recommended pressure should be.[4]XResearch source
You can purchase a tire pressure gauge at an automotive store or online.
4 Press the tip of a screwdriver on the metal pin. There will be a thin metal pin in the center of the valve. You can also use a pair of needle-nose pliers or another small, thin tool. Air will start to shoot out of the valve when you apply pressure to the pin.[5]XResearch source [6]X Expert Source Howard FleischmannAutomotive Tire & Repair SpecialistExpert Interview
Lift the screwdriver off of the pin to stop it from deflating.
5 Jack your car up if you're completely deflating your tires. Completely deflating a car or truck tires without jacking up the vehicle can damage your rotors and tires. Find the jack point on the side of the vehicle and use the lever to jack the car up into the air. You can then completely remove the air from the tire safely.[7]XResearch source
Read the owner's manual if you're unsure of how to jack up your particular model of car.
6 Unscrew the metal pin to deflate the vehicle tire faster. Use a pair of thin, 5 inches (13 cm) long needle nose pliers and turn the metal pin inside of the valve counterclockwise. Your tires will lose air in a quicker flow than if you just pressed down on the pin. Use this method if you want to deflate your tires quickly.[8]XResearch source
Set the metal pin aside in a plastic bag so you don't misplace it.
Remember to screw the pin back into the valve once you're done.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 2:
Deflating a Bike Tire
Download Article
1 Loosen the cap on the end of the valve. The valve will look like a long stem protruding from your tire. On the end of the stem, there will be a cylindrical cap. Turn the cap counterclockwise until the cap is loose, but don't remove it completely.[9]XResearch source
2 Fit the end of your tire pump onto your tire. You can usually find the recommended pounds of pressure, or PSI, for your bike tires on the inner part of the tire. Press the end of the tire pump hose onto the end of the valve after you loosen it. Flip the lever on the backside of the tire pump and read the gauge on the pump to see what the pressure level is in your tires. If they are overfilled, you should release some air from them.[10]XResearch source
3 Remove the tire pump from the valve to deflate the tire. If your tire is overfilled and you want to deflate it, you'll need to remove the pump first. Flip the switch on the back of the pump to the up position and wiggle the pump off the valve.
4 Press down on the tip of the valve to deflate the tire. Pressing down on the cap once it's loose will release the air from the tire. You should hear and feel the air shoot out of the valve as you press down on the valve cap.[11]XResearch source
5 Push down on the tire to remove the air more quickly. If you want to remove the air from the tire quicker, place it on the ground and push down on it. This will shoot the air out of your tires faster than if you just pressed down on the valve cap.[12]XResearch source
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
You Might Also Like
How toInflate a Car Tire with a Bike PumpHow toPut Air in a TireHow to Fill Air in a Car's TiresHow toReplace a Bike TubeHow toReplace a Bicycle TireOverinflated Tires: Why It Matters (and How to Handle It)How toFix a Bike TireHow toInflate Bike TiresHow to Change a Mountain Bike TireHow toFind a Leak in a TireHow toPatch a TireHow toCheck the Tire Pressure at a Gas StationHow toCheck Air Pressure in TiresHow to Repair a Flat Tire Advertisement
References
↑ Howard Fleischmann. Automotive Tire & Repair Specialist. Expert Interview
Co-authored by: Howard Fleischmann Automotive Tire & Repair Specialist This article was co-authored by Howard Fleischmann. Howard Fleischmann is an Automotive Tire and Repair Specialist and the CEO of Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair, with ten locations throughout Phoenix, Glendale, Yuma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. Howard specializes in full-service auto repair and tire replacement and care for domestic/imported vehicles and large trucks. Howard’s dedication to Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair has earned their team multiple awards and features including the 2021 Phoenix Magazine AZ State 48 “Best of the Best!”, the 2020 “Best of Phoenix” in Auto Repair, the 2013 Master SBD award, the 2013 National “Top Shop” award by Tire Review, the 2012 Diversity Champions Phx Business Journal, the 2009 BBB Ethics award, the 2008 Phx Chamber of Commerce Impact Award -” Small Business of the Year”, and the 2008 ASU Spirit of Enterprise award. Howard is often referred to as “The Car Guy” for local TV stations and is a regular on TV’s Channel 3 Sunday, Good Morning Arizona monthly. This article has been viewed 346,196 times. 11 votes - 78% Co-authors: 7Updated: November 19, 2025 Views: 346,196 Categories: Tires and SuspensionArticle SummaryX
To let air out of a tire, start by removing the cap from the valve located on the side of your tire between the spokes. Next, use the tip of a screwdriver to push in the thin metal pin in the center of the valve and let the air rush out. Alternatively, you can use needle nose pliers to push in the pin. In order to deflate the tire even faster, use pliers to unscrew the metal pin in the valve. However, make sure to put the pin back in when you’re done! For tips on how to let air out of a bicycle tire, read on.Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Portuguese French Spanish German Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 346,196 times.
Did this article help you?
Yes No Did this article help you? Say thanks with a small tip. $1 $3 $5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Howard Fleischmann Automotive Tire & Repair Specialist 11 votes - 78% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 7Updated: November 19, 2025 Views: 346,196
Quizzes & Games
Do I Have Common Sense QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizFinish the Phrase QuizTake QuizQuick IQ TestTake QuizWhat Are The Best Compression Socks For Me QuizTake QuizTraffic Signs TestTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toInflate a Car Tire with a Bike PumpHow toPut Air in a TireHow to Fill Air in a Car's TiresHow toReplace a Bike Tube
Featured Articles
How to Speed Up Your Slow-Performing Mobile DataHow to Get a Nice BodyIce Cream Personality TestHow toDress for WinterNicknames for Your Girlfriend: 125+ Funny, Sweet & Clever IdeasHow to Give Someone a Great Gift
Trending Articles
How Much Do I Mog QuizHow Weird Am I QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizAm I Annoying QuizLet Us Rate You 1-10: Attractiveness Scale QuizWhat Would My Life At Camp Half-Blood Be Like Quiz
Featured Articles
What Would My Life At Camp Half-Blood Be Like QuizThe Best Hairstyles for Guys with Big Foreheads22 Best Ideas for Scary (and Funny) PranksHow to Text Yourself: Fake Text Messages, Reminders, and MoreAccurate Omegaverse Quiz: 100% GuaranteeThe Hardest & Most Difficult Riddles for Adults
Featured Articles
How to Be More Spontaneous and Enjoy Life to the FullestHow toImprove Your PersonalitySigns You Were Meant For Greatness (Quiz)210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-BlowingHow to Meet Gay People Without a Dating AppCute, Thoughtful & Romantic Messages to Wish Her a Good Day at Work
Watch Articles
How to Marinate Chicken: 4 Recipes and a Step-By-Step GuideHow toClean Shower TileHow toDo Oblique CrunchesSimple Ways to Riffle Shuffle and Bridge Playing CardsHow toMake Black CoffeeHow toPlant a Seed in a Pot
Trending Articles
What's Special About Me QuizHow Many People Actually Find Me Intimidating QuizHow Nonchalant Am I QuizThe World's Hardest Riddles (for Kids & Adults)1, 2, 1, 2, 3, Release ‘Em: All About This Viral TikTok TrendHow Would My Fandom See Me If I Were a Fictional Character Quiz
Quizzes & Games
What Tarot Card Am I QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizAnger Issues TestTake QuizMusic Notes & Symbols TestTake QuizAm I Funny QuizTake QuizWhy Am I So Bloated QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Cars & Other Vehicles
Cars
Car Maintenance and Repair
Tires and Suspension
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Home
About wikiHow
Experts
Jobs
Contact Us
Site Map
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Do Not Sell or Share My Info
Not Selling Info
Contribute
Follow Us
×
wikiHow Tech Help Pro:
Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve
Download Article Co-authored by Howard Fleischmann 
How to Repair a Flat Tire 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Howard Fleischmann Automotive Tire & Repair Specialist This article was co-authored by Howard Fleischmann. Howard Fleischmann is an Automotive Tire and Repair Specialist and the CEO of Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair, with ten locations throughout Phoenix, Glendale, Yuma, and Casa Grande, Arizona. Howard specializes in full-service auto repair and tire replacement and care for domestic/imported vehicles and large trucks. Howard’s dedication to Community Tire Pros & Auto Repair has earned their team multiple awards and features including the 2021 Phoenix Magazine AZ State 48 “Best of the Best!”, the 2020 “Best of Phoenix” in Auto Repair, the 2013 Master SBD award, the 2013 National “Top Shop” award by Tire Review, the 2012 Diversity Champions Phx Business Journal, the 2009 BBB Ethics award, the 2008 Phx Chamber of Commerce Impact Award -” Small Business of the Year”, and the 2008 ASU Spirit of Enterprise award. Howard is often referred to as “The Car Guy” for local TV stations and is a regular on TV’s Channel 3 Sunday, Good Morning Arizona monthly. This article has been viewed 346,196 times. 11 votes - 78% Co-authors: 7 Updated: November 19, 2025 Views: 346,196 Categories: Tires and Suspension Article SummaryX
$1 $3 $5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
673 
1 Locate the valve on your tires.[1] The valve is usually found between the spokes near the middle of your tire. The valve stem should look like a short 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) tube protruding from your tires. It will usually have a black or metal cap on the end of the stem.[2] 
2 Rotate the cap on the valve counterclockwise to remove it. Removing the cap on the valve will reveal the metallic part of the valve. The valve looks like a round hole with a pin in the center of it.[3] 
3 Check the pressure on your tires. Attach a pressure gauge onto the valve on your tires and screw it into place. It should give you a readout for your tire pressure in pounds per square inch, or PSI. Check the owner's manual to see what the recommended pressure should be.[4] 
4 Press the tip of a screwdriver on the metal pin. There will be a thin metal pin in the center of the valve. You can also use a pair of needle-nose pliers or another small, thin tool. Air will start to shoot out of the valve when you apply pressure to the pin.[5] [6] 
5 Jack your car up if you're completely deflating your tires. Completely deflating a car or truck tires without jacking up the vehicle can damage your rotors and tires. Find the jack point on the side of the vehicle and use the lever to jack the car up into the air. You can then completely remove the air from the tire safely.[7] 
6 Unscrew the metal pin to deflate the vehicle tire faster. Use a pair of thin, 5 inches (13 cm) long needle nose pliers and turn the metal pin inside of the valve counterclockwise. Your tires will lose air in a quicker flow than if you just pressed down on the pin. Use this method if you want to deflate your tires quickly.[8] 
1 Loosen the cap on the end of the valve. The valve will look like a long stem protruding from your tire. On the end of the stem, there will be a cylindrical cap. Turn the cap counterclockwise until the cap is loose, but don't remove it completely.[9] 
2 Fit the end of your tire pump onto your tire. You can usually find the recommended pounds of pressure, or PSI, for your bike tires on the inner part of the tire. Press the end of the tire pump hose onto the end of the valve after you loosen it. Flip the lever on the backside of the tire pump and read the gauge on the pump to see what the pressure level is in your tires. If they are overfilled, you should release some air from them.[10] 
3 Remove the tire pump from the valve to deflate the tire. If your tire is overfilled and you want to deflate it, you'll need to remove the pump first. Flip the switch on the back of the pump to the up position and wiggle the pump off the valve. 
4 Press down on the tip of the valve to deflate the tire. Pressing down on the cap once it's loose will release the air from the tire. You should hear and feel the air shoot out of the valve as you press down on the valve cap.[11] 
5 Push down on the tire to remove the air more quickly. If you want to remove the air from the tire quicker, place it on the ground and push down on it. This will shoot the air out of your tires faster than if you just pressed down on the valve cap.[12] Advertisement 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.