Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure
Tire manufactures maximum permissible pressure and/or the pressure at
which the maximum load can be carried by the tire. This pressure is
normally higher than the manufacturer's recommended cold inflation
pressure which can be found on either the tire label or certification label
which is located on the structure by the trailing edge of the driver's door
or the edge of the driver's door. The cold inflation pressure should never
be set lower than the recommended pressure on the vehicle
label.
Note:You may not find this information on all tires because it is not
required by federal law.
The tire suppliers may have additional markings, notes or warnings such
as standard load, radial tubeless, etc.
Tires can slowly lose pressure due to normal use or due to changes in
weather. For example, a 10 degree temperature drop can cause a
corresponding drop of 7 kPa (1 psi) in tire inflation pressure.
Maintain proper tire inflation pressure. Under-inflation is the
most common cause of tire failures. Under-inflation increases
sidewall flexing and rolling resistance, resulting in heat buildup and
internal damage to the tire. Operating your vehicle with under-inflated
tires may result in severe tire cracking, tread separation or tire
ªblowoutº, which can lead to loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover,
serious injury or death.
The Ford recommended inflation pressure is based on cold tire pressure.
Tire pressure increases even after driving short distances, so try to check
tire inflation pressures before driving. If you are checking tire pressure
when the tire is hot, (i.e. driven more than 1.6 km [1mile]), never ªbleedº
or reduce air pressure. A hot tire with a tire pressure at or below
recommended cold inflation pressure could be significantly under-inflated.
To check the pressure in your tire(s):
1. Make sure the tires are cool, meaning they are not hot from driving
even a mile.
Note:If you have to drive a distance to get air for your tire(s), check
and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air pressure
when you get to the pump. It is normal for tires to heat up and the air
pressure inside to go up as you drive. Never ªbleedº or reduce air
pressure when tires are hot.
2. Remove the cap from the valve on one tire, then firmly press the tire
gauge onto the valve.
Inspecting and Inflating Your Tires
14
