Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Tire Inflation Pressures

Fig. 4:





Under inflation causes rapid shoulder wear of the tire tread and tire flexing. This can result in failure of the tire.





Over inflation causes rapid center wear and loss of the tire's ability to cushion shocks.

Improper inflation can cause:
- Uneven wear patterns
- Reduced tread life
- Reduced fuel economy
- Unsatisfactory ride
- The vehicle to drift.

Refer to the Tire Inflation Pressure brochure for information regarding proper tire inflation.

Tire pressures have been chosen to provide safe operation, vehicle stability, and a smooth ride. Tire pressure should be checked cold once per month. Check tire pressure more frequently when the weather temperature varies widely. Tire pressure will decrease when the outdoor temperature drops.

Inflation pressures specified on the placard are always cold inflation pressure. Cold inflation pressure is obtained after the vehicle has not been operated for at least 3 hours, or the vehicle is driven less than one mile after being inoperative for 3 hours. Tire inflation pressures may increase from 2 to 6 pounds per square inch (psi) during operation. Do not reduce this normal pressure build-up.

Vehicles loaded to the maximum capacity should not be driven at continuous speeds above 75 mph (120 km/h).

CAUTION: Over or under inflated tires can affect vehicle handling. The tire can fail suddenly, resulting in loss of vehicle control.