When you inflate the tires to the recommended inflation pressures,
the factory-installed wheels and tires are designed to handle loads to the
tire's rated load capacity. Incorrect tire pressures, or under-inflated tires,
can cause the following conditions:
| • | Vehicle handling problems |
Inspect the tire pressure when the following apply:
| • | The vehicle has been sitting at least 3 hours. |
| • | The vehicle has not been driven for more than 1.6 km (1 mi). |
Inspect the tires monthly or before any extended trip. Adjust the tire
pressure to the specifications on the tire label. Install the valve caps or
extensions on the valves. These keep out dust and water.
The kilopascal (kPa) is the metric term for pressure. The tire pressure
may be printed in both kilopascal (kPa) and psi. One psi equals 6.9 kPa.
Tires with a higher than recommended pressure can cause
the following conditions:
| • | Rapid tread wear at the center of the tire |
Tires with a lower than recommended pressure can cause the following
conditions:
| • | Rapid wear and uneven wear on the edge of the tread |
| • | Tire rim bruises and tire rim rupture |
| • | Reduced vehicle handling |
Unequal pressure on the same axle can cause the following conditions:
| • | Reduced vehicle handling |
For specific tire and wheel application and tire pressures, refer to
Tire Placard
in General Information.
