Proper Inflation
With the right amount of air pressure, your tyres will perform better, wear longer and save fuel. The "right amount" of air pressure for the original equipment or same size tyres is specified by the vehicle manufacturer and may be different for front and rear tyres. Check with your Toyo distributor or dealer if the replacement tyres on your vehicle are no longer the same size as the O.E. tyres.
Where To Find The Correct O.E. Inflation Pressure
You will find the recommended pressure on a placard or sticker in the door jamb, glove compartment, or near the gas cap. If your vehicle does not have a placard, check the owner's manual or consult the vehicle manufacturer, tyre manufacturer, or your local tyre dealer. The tyre placard tells you the maximum vehicle load, the cold tyre pressure, and the tyre size recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Using A Tyre Pressure Gauge
You can't tell when tyres are low or underinflated just by looking. Always use an accurate tyre pressure gauge to determine your tyre pressure.
When To Check Tire Pressure
Check inflation pressure (including the spare) at least once a month and before every long trip. Tyres must be checked when they are cold (before they have run a mile). If you must drive over a mile for air, measure and record the underinflation amount of each tire. Upon arriving at the service station, measure each tyre's inflation again and if the pressure has increased, adjust the amount of additional air pressure needed. For example, if cold pressure should be 35PSI, cold pressure was 28PSI, and current pressure is 33PSI, you should inflate the warm tyres to 40PSI and recheck them again when cold.
How Do Tyres Lose Pressure?
Tyres lose pressure naturally through the process of permeation. Changes in outdoor temperature can affect the rate at which tyres lose air. This change is more pronounced in hot weather. Generally speaking, a tyre will lose one or two pounds of air pressure per month in cool weather or even more in hot weather. Remember, underinflation is the leading cause of tyre failure, so check inflation pressure regularly.
Other Tips
Never "bleed" or reduce air pressure when tyres are hot. It is normal for pressures to build up as a result of driving.
Make sure all tyre valves and extensions are equipped with valve caps with rubber gaskets to keep out dirt and moisture. Have a new valve stem assembly installed whenever a tire is replaced.
Underinflation or overloading creates excessive heat, and can lead to tyre failure, which could result in vehicle damage and/or serious injury or death.
