Tire Inflation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Jeep Liberty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Under inflation will cause rapid shoulder wear, tire flexing, and possible tire failure. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Under Inflation

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - THIN TIRE THREAD AREAS

Over inflation will cause 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 THREAD AREA

Improper inflation can cause:

Uneven wear patterns
Reduced tread life
Reduced fuel economy
Unsatisfactory ride
Vehicle drift

For proper tire pressure specification refer to the Tire Inflation Pressure Chart provided with the vehicle.

Tire pressures have been chosen to provide safe operation, vehicle stability, and a smooth ride. Tire pressure should be checked cold once a month. The spare tire pressure should be check at least twice annually. Tire pressure decreases as the ambient temperature drops. Check tire pressure frequently when ambient temperature varies widely.

Inflation pressures specified on the placards are cold inflation pressure. The vehicle must sit for at least 3 hours to obtain the correct cold inflation pressure reading. Or driven less than one mile after sitting for 3 hours. Tire inflation pressures may increase from 2 to 6 pounds per square inch (psi) during operation, due to increased tire temperature.

WARNING: OVER OR UNDER INFLATED TIRES CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND TREAD WEAR. THIS MAY CAUSE THE TIRE TO FAIL SUDDENLY, RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.