Tire pressure, tread, and the small checks that matter

Tire Care

Most tire problems start quietly. These guides explain what to look at, how to measure it, and where to find the numbers that apply to your vehicle.

Finding the right tire pressure

The correct inflation pressure for your vehicle is set by the vehicle manufacturer, not the number molded on the tire sidewall.

Look for the tire placard on the driver's door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Check pressure when tires are cold, before driving or after the car has sat for a few hours.
Use a reliable gauge and check monthly, including the spare if your vehicle has one.
Air pressure tends to drop as outside temperatures fall, so check more often in cold months.

Tread depth affects how well a tire channels water and grips the road surface.

Tread depth is usually measured in 32nds of an inch.
Many tires include tread wear indicator bars that become flush with the tread as it wears.
A simple tread depth gauge gives a more precise reading than a coin test.
Measure in several spots across the tire, since uneven wear can point to alignment or inflation issues.

The sidewall lists size, load index, speed rating, and a manufacture date code.

The four-digit DOT date code shows the week and year the tire was made.
Watch for cracks, bulges, or cuts on the sidewall during visual checks.
Replacement tires should match the size and ratings listed by your vehicle manufacturer.

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