Standard Procedure - Tire Inflation Pressures

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The specified tire pressures have been chosen to provide safe operation, vehicle stability, and a smooth ride. The proper tire pressure specification can be found on the Tire Inflation Pressure Label provided with the vehicle (usually on the driver's side B-pillar).

A quality air pressure gauge is recommended to check tire air pressure. 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. After checking the air pressure, replace valve cap finger tight.

Inflation pressures specified on the Tire Inflation Pressure Label are always the cold inflation pressure of the tire. 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 buildup.

Improper inflation can cause:

Uneven wear patterns
Reduced tread life
Reduced fuel economy
Unsatisfactory ride
The vehicle to drift.

WARNING: OVER OR UNDER INFLATED TIRES CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING. THE TIRE CAN FAIL SUDDENLY, RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.

Under inflation causes rapid shoulder wear, tire flexing, and can result in tire failure. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Under Inflation Wear

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - THIN TIRE TREAD AREAS

Over inflation causes rapid center wear and loss of the tire's ability to cushion shocks. See Fig 2.

Fig 2: Over Inflation Wear

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - THIN TIRE TREAD AREA