Pre Delivery Information on Tire Pressure Check and Tire Pressure Adjustment
| Subject: | Pre-Delivery Information on Tire Pressure Check and Tire Pressure Adjustment |
| Models: | 1997 Saturns |
Purpose
All Saturn vehicles are shipped with tire pressures set higher than the recommended normal operating pressure. This is done for several reasons:
| • | Recommended normal operation pressures are different for the front and rear tires. To simplify assembly, all tires are inflated to the same production specification and installed without regard to position on the vehicle. |
| • | Higher tire inflation pressure during assembly promotes tire seating to the wheel. Incorrect or poor seating of the tire tot he wheel may result in excessive radial runout or force variation, causing a vibration to be felt in the vehicle while driving. |
| • | Higher tire inflation pressure eliminates the need for adding air (which requires an air supply) during Retailer new vehicle pre-delivery inspection. Tires are adjusted to recommended pressure simply and quickly through bleeding air only. |
Some 1997 Saturn vehicles may have tires inflated to approximately 315 kPa (45 psi) from the previous production setting of approximately 238 kPa (34 psi). The tire pressure is being increased on some vehicles to determine if tire seating is improved. This production process change may become permanent if improvements are realized.
During new vehicle pre-delivery inspection, make sure to check and adjust tire inflation pressures, including spare, to the recommended specifications shown on the Tire Loading Information Label. On 1997 Saturn sedans and Wagons, this label is located on the rear edge of the driver's door. On 1997 Saturn Coupes, this label is located on the driver's door opening still below the door striker. For label location on earlier model year vehicles, refer to the "Service and appearance Care" section of the Owner's Handbook for that particular model year.
Failure to adjust tire inflation pressure to be recommended specifications may result in a harsh ride.
Also, make sure to adjust tire pressure after performing a tire rotation. Because Saturn recommends a different tire pressure for the front and rear of the vehicle, the tire pressure must be adjusted after a tire rotation.
