Did people ever really kick tires?

Actually I still do. After a period of time of not using it, I just give the trailer tires a kick to judge the pressure. Doesn’t tell you exactly, but you know it isn’t at 20 psi. You have seen the truckers take a billy club to their tires? Same principle. You can tell by the bounce. Not sure what the purpose would be on a used car though. If you were going to buy it, usually first stop is at the tire shop for a new set.