
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
236
Tire Identification Number (TIN)
The TIN may be found on one or both sides of the tire; however, the date code may only be on one side. Tires with white sidewalls will have the full
TIN, including the date code, located on the white sidewall side of the tire. Look for the TIN on the outboard side of black sidewall tires as mounted
on the vehicle. If the TIN is not found on the outboard side, then you will find it on the inboard side of the tire.
Tire Terminology And Definitions
EXAMPLE:
DOT MA L9 ABCD 0301
DOT  = Department of Transportation 
This symbol certifies that the tire is in compliance with the US Department of Transportation tire safety standards and is approved for highway
use
MA  = Code representing the tire manufacturing location (two digits)
L9  = Code representing the tire size (two digits)
ABCD = Code used by the tire manufacturer (one to four digits)
03  = Number representing the week in which the tire was manufactured (two digits) 
03 means the 3rd week
01  = Number representing the year in which the tire was manufactured (two digits) 
01 means the year 2001
Prior  to  July  2000,  tire  manufacturers  were  only  required  to  have  one  number  to  represent  the  year  in  which  the  tire  was  manufactured.
Example: 031 could represent the 3rd week of 1981 or 1991
TermDefinition
B-pillar The  vehicle  B-pillar  is  the  structural  member  of  the  body  located  behind  the  front
door.
Cold Tire Inflation Pressure Cold  tire  inflation  pressure  is  defined  as  the  tire  pressure  after  the  vehicle  has  not
been  driven  for at least three  hours,  or driven less than  1 mile (1.6 km) after sitting
for a minimum of three hours. Inflation pressure is measured in units of PSI (pounds
per square inch) or kPa (kilopascals).
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237
Tire Loading And Tire Pressure 
NOTE:
The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed
on the driver’s side B-pillar or the rear edge of
the driver's side door.
Check  the  inflation  pressure  of  each  tire,
including  the  spare  tire  (if  equipped),  at  least
monthly and inflate to the recommended pres-
sure for your vehicle.
Example Tire Placard Location (Door) Example Tire Placard Location (B-pillar)
Tire And Loading Information Placard
Tire And Loading Information Placard This  placard  tells  you  important  information
about the:
1. Number  of  people  that  can  be  carried  in
the vehicle.
2. Total weight your vehicle can carry.
3. Tire size designed for your vehicle.
4. Cold  tire  inflation  pressures  for  the  front, rear, and spare tires.
Loading 
The vehicle maximum load on the tire must not
exceed the load carrying capacity of the tire on
your vehicle. You will not exceed the tire's load
carrying  capacity  if  you  adhere  to  the  loading
conditions,  tire  size,  and  cold  tire  inflation
pressures  specified  on  the  Tire  and  Loading
Information placard  
Ú
 page 135.
Maximum Inflation Pressure
The  maximum  inflation  pressure  is  the  maximum  permissible  cold  tire  inflation
pressure for this tire. The maximum inflation pressure is molded into the sidewall.
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation Pressure Vehicle  manufacturer's  recommended  cold  tire  inflation  pressure  as  shown  on  the
tire placard.
Tire Placard A label permanently attached to the vehicle describing the vehicle’s loading capacity,
the original equipment tire sizes and the recommended cold tire inflation pressures.
TermDefinition
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 237   

239
(Continued)
(Conti n
ued)
Tires — General Information 
Tire Pressure 
Proper  tire  inflation  pressure  is  essential  to
the  safe  and  satisfactory  operation  of  your
vehicle.  Four  primary  areas  are  affected  by
improper tire pressure:
Safety
Fuel Economy
Tread Wear
Ride Comfort and Vehicle Stability
Safety
 WARNING!
Overloading  of  your  tires  is  dangerous.
Overloading  can  cause  tire  failure,  affect
vehicle  handling,  and  increase  your
stopping  distance.  Use  tires  of  the
recommended  load  capacity  for  your
vehicle. Never overload them.
 WARNING!
Improperly  inflated  tires  are  dangerous
and can cause collisions.
Underinflation  increases  tire  flexing  and
can result in overheating and tire failure.
Overinflation  reduces  a  tire's  ability  to
cushion  shock.  Objects  on  the  road  and
chuckholes can cause damage that result
in tire failure.
Overinflated  or  underinflated  tires  can
affect  vehicle  handling  and  can  fail
suddenly,  resulting  in  loss  of  vehicle
control.
Unequal tire pressures can cause steering
problems.  You  could  lose  control  of  your
vehicle.
 WARNING!  (Continued)
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
240
Both  underinflation  and  overinflation  affect
the  stability  of  the  vehicle  and  can  produce  a
feeling  of  sluggish  response  or  over  respon-
siveness in the steering.
NOTE:
Unequal  tire  pressures  from  side  to  side
may  cause  erratic  and  unpredictable
steering response.
Unequal tire pressure from side to side may
cause the vehicle to drift left or right.
Fuel Economy
Underinflated  tires  will  increase  tire  rolling
resistance  resulting  in  higher  fuel  consump -
tion.
Tread Wear
Improper  cold  tire  inflation  pressures  can
cause  abnormal  wear  patterns  and  reduced
tread life,  resulting in the need for  earlier  tire
replacement. Ride Comfort And Vehicle Stability
Proper  tire  inflation  contributes  to  a  comfort
-
able ride. Overinflation produces a jarring and
uncomfortable ride.
Tire Inflation Pressures 
The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed
on the driver's side B-pillar or rear edge of the
driver's side door.
At least once a month:
Check and adjust tire pressure with a  good
quality  pocket-type pressure gauge.  Do not
make a visual judgement when determining
proper  inflation.  Tires  may  look  properly
inflated even when they are underinflated.
Inspect tires for signs of tire wear or visible
damage.
Inflation  pressures  specified  on  the  placard
are  always  “cold  tire  inflation  pressure”.  Cold
tire  inflation  pressure  is  defined  as  the  tire
pressure after the vehicle has not been driven
for  at  least  three  hours,  or  driven  less  than
1 mile (1.6 km) after sitting  for a minimum  of
three  hours.  The  cold  tire  inflation  pressure must  not exceed  the  maximum  inflation  pres
-
sure molded into the tire sidewall.
Check tire pressures more often if subject to a
wide  range  of  outdoor  temperatures,  as  tire
pressures vary with temperature changes.
Tire  pressures change by  approximately  1 psi
(7  kPa)  per  12°F  (7°C)  of  air  temperature
change. Keep this in mind when checking tire
pressure  inside  a  garage,  especially  in  the
Winter.
Example:  If  garage  temperature  =  68°F
(20°C)  and  the  outside  temperature  =  32°F
(0°C)  then  the  cold  tire  inflation  pressure
should  be  increased  by  3  psi  (21  kPa),  which
equals  1  psi  (7  kPa)  for  every  12°F  (7°C)  for
this outside temperature condition.
Tire pressure may increase from 2 to 6 psi 
(13  to  40  kPa)  during  operation.  DO  NOT
reduce  this  normal  pressure  build  up  or  your
tire pressure will be too low.
Tire Pressures For High Speed Operation 
The  manufacturer  advocates  driving  at  safe
speeds and within posted speed limits. Where
speed  limits  or  conditions  are  such  that  the
vehicle  can  be  driven  at  high  speeds,  main -
taining  correct  tire  inflation  pressure  is  very
important.  Increased  tire  pressure  and
reduced  vehicle  loading  may  be  required  for
high-speed  vehicle  operation.  Refer  to  an
authorized  tire  dealer  or  original  equipment
vehicle  dealer  for  recommended  safe  oper -
ating  speeds,  loading  and  cold  tire  inflation
pressures.
Unequal  tire  pressures  from  one  side  of
the  vehicle  to  the  other  can  cause  the
vehicle to drift to the right or left.
Always  drive with  each  tire inflated to  the
recommended cold tire inflation pressure.
 WARNING!  (Continued)
 CAUTION!
After  inspecting  or  adjusting  the  tire
pressure,  always  reinstall  the  valve  stem
cap. This will prevent moisture and dirt from
entering  the  valve  stem,  which  could
damage the valve stem.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 240   

241
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation Pressures
For vehicle speeds below 100 mph (160 km/h),
recommended  cold  tire  inflation  pressures  are
listed  on  the  Tire  And  Loading  Information
Placard  located  on  driver’s  side  B-pillar  or  the
rear edge of the driver's side door.
When driving at speeds 100 mph (160 km/h)
and  above,  increased  tire  pressures  and
reduced  vehicle  loading  are  required  for
high-speed vehicle operation.For driving speeds above 100 mph (160 km/h)
recommended cold tire  inflation pressures are
listed  below  under  "High  Speed  Tire  Inflation
Pressure".  Vehicle  loading  condition  must  not
exceed  688  lbs.  (312  kg)  (driver  +  three
passengers + 88 lbs. (40kg) luggage).
2.0L Engine
NOTE:
Using tires of a different size, type, brand or design on the front and rear may adversely affect vehicle drive-ability. We recommend using only tires
approved by the manufacturer. The manufacturer cannot determine if unapproved tires are suitable for use and therefore cannot guarantee vehicle
safety in those conditions.
 WARNING!
High  speed  driving  with  your  vehicle  under
maximum  load  is  dangerous.  The  added
strain on your tires could cause them to fail.
You  could  have  a  serious  collision.  Do  not
drive  a  vehicle  loaded  to  the  maximum
capacity  at  continuous  speeds  above
75 mph (120 km/h).
 WARNING!
High  speed  driving  with  your  vehicle  under
maximum  load  is  dangerous.  The  added
strain on your tires could cause them to fail.
You could have a serious collision.
TiresWheel
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation  PressureHigh Speed Tire Inflation Pressure
FrontRearFrontRear
235/60 R18 103V 18x8J30 psi / 210 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 38 psi / 260 kPa
235/55 R19 101V &  105V 19x8J
30 psi / 210 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 38 psi / 260 kPa
255/45 R20 101H 20x8.5J33 psi / 230 kPa 36 psi / 250 kPa 35 psi / 240 kPa 39 psi / 270 kPa
255/40 R21 102W XL 21x8.5J33 psi / 230 kPa 36 psi / 250 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 39 psi / 270 kPa
195/75 R18 106P 
(Compact Spare Tire) –
43 psi / 300 kPa
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
242
2.9L Engine
Radial Ply Tires Tire Repair
If  your  tire  becomes  damaged,  it  may  be
repaired if it meets the following criteria:
The tire has not been driven on when flat.
The  damage  is  only  on  the  tread  section  of
your tire (sidewall damage is not repairable).
The  puncture  is  no  greater  than  a  ¼  of  an
inch (6 mm).Consult  an  authorized  tire  dealer  for  tire
repairs and additional information.
Damaged Run Flat tires, or Run Flat tires that
have experienced a loss of pressure should be
replaced  immediately  with  another  Run  Flat
tire  of  identical  size  and  service  description
(Load  Index  and  Speed  Symbol).  Replace  the
tire  pressure  sensor  as  well  as  it  is  not
designed to be reused.
TiresWheel
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation 
PressureHigh Speed Tire Inflation Pressure
FrontRearFrontRear
255/45R20 101Y 
(Original Equipment) 20x9J
36 psi / 250 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
255/40 R21 102Y XL  (Original Equipment) 21x9J
39 psi / 270 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
285/40R20 104Y 
(Original Equipment) 20x10J
-39 psi / 270 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
285/35 R21 105Y XL  (Original Equipment) 21x10J
-42 psi / 290 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
255/45R20 M+S (Snow  Tires) 20x9J
36 psi / 250 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
255/40 R21 M+S (Snow  Tires) 21x9J
39 psi / 270 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
255/45R20 M+S (Snow  Tires) 20x9J
-39 psi / 270 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
285/35 R21 M+S (Snow  Tires) 21x9J
-42 psi / 290 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
 WARNING!
Combining  radial  ply  tires  with  other  types
of  tires  on  your  vehicle  will  cause  your
vehicle  to  handle  poorly.  The  instability
could  cause  a  collision.  Always  use  radial
ply tires in sets of four. Never combine them
with other types of tires.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 242   

243
Run Flat Tires — If Equipped
Run Flat tires allow you the capability to  drive
50 miles (80 km) at 50 mph (80 km/h) after a
rapid loss of inflation pressure. This rapid loss
of inflation is referred to as the Run Flat mode.
A Run Flat mode occurs when the tire inflation
pressure is of/or below 14 psi (96 kPa). Once
a Run Flat tire reaches the run flat mode it has
limited  driving  capabilities  and  needs  to  be
replaced  immediately.  A  Run  Flat  tire  is  not
repairable.  When  a  run  flat  tire  is  changed
after  driving  with  underinflated  tire  condition,
please  replace  the  TPM  sensor  as  it  is  not
designed to be reused when driven under run
flat mode 14 psi (96 kPa) condition.
NOTE:
TPM Sensor must be replaced after driving the
vehicle on a flat tire condition.
It is not recommended driving a vehicle loaded
at full capacity or to tow a trailer while a tire is
in the run flat mode.
For more information  
Ú
 page 161.
Tire Spinning
When  stuck  in  mud,  sand,  snow,  or  ice  condi -
tions,  do  not  spin  your  vehicle's  wheels  above
30 mph (48 km/h) or for longer than 30 seconds
continuously without stopping.
Tread Wear Indicators 
Tread wear indicators are in the original equip -
ment  tires  to  help  you  in  determining  when
your tires should be replaced.
Tire Tread These indicators are molded into the bottom of
the  tread  grooves.  They  will  appear  as  bands
when  the  tread  depth  becomes  a  1/16  of  an
inch  (1.6 mm).  When  the  tread  is  worn  to  the
tread  wear  indicators,  the  tire  should  be
replaced.
Life Of Tire 
The  service  life  of  a  tire  is  dependent  upon
varying factors including, but not limited to:
Driving style.
Tire  pressure  -  Improper  cold  tire  inflation
pressures can cause uneven wear patterns
to  develop  across  the  tire  tread.  These
abnormal  wear  patterns  will  reduce  tread
life,  resulting  in  the  need  for  earlier  tire
replacement.
Distance driven.
Performance tires, tires with a speed rating
of  V  or  higher,  and  Summer  tires  typically
have a reduced tread life. Rotation of these
tires  per  the  vehicle  scheduled  mainte
-
nance is highly recommended.
 WARNING!
Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces
generated  by  excessive  wheel  speeds  may
cause  tire  damage  or  failure.  A  tire  could
explode  and  injure  someone.  Do  not  spin
your  vehicle's  wheels  faster  than  30 mph
(48 km/h)  for  more  than  30  seconds
continuously when you are stuck, and do not
let anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter
what the speed.
1 — Worn Tire
2 — New Tire
 WARNING!
Tires and the spare tire should be replaced
after  six  years,  regardless  of  the  remaining
tread.  Failure  to  follow  this  warning  can
result  in  sudden  tire failure.  You  could  lose
control  and  have  a  collision  resulting  in
serious injury or death.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 243   

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
244
NOTE:
Wheel  valve  stem  must  be  replaced  as  well
when installing new tires due to wear and tear
in existing tires.
Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with
as  little  exposure  to  light  as  possible.  Protect
tires  from  contact  with  oil,  grease,  and  gaso-
line.
Replacement Tires 
The  tires  on  your  new  vehicle  provide  a
balance  of  many  characteristics.  They  should
be  inspected  regularly  for  wear  and  correct
cold tire inflation pressures. The manufacturer
strongly recommends that you use tires equiv -
alent to the originals in size, quality and perfor -
mance  when  replacement  is  needed 
Ú
 page 243.  Refer  to  the  Tire  and  Loading
Information  placard  or  the  Vehicle  Certifica -
tion Label for the size designation of your tire.
The Load Index and Speed Symbol for your tire
will  be  found  on  the  original  equipment  tire
sidewall.
See  the  Tire  Sizing  Chart  example  for  more
information  relating  to  the  Load  Index  and
Speed Symbol of a tire  
Ú
 page 233.
It  is  recommended  to  replace  the  two  front
tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just
one  tire  can  seriously  affect  your  vehicle’s
handling.  If  you  ever  replace  a  wheel,  make
sure  that  the  wheel’s  specifications  match
those of the original wheels. It is recommended you contact  an authorized
tire  dealer  or  original  equipment  dealer  with
any questions you may have on tire specifica
-
tions  or  capability.  Failure  to  use  equivalent
replacement  tires  may  adversely  affect  the
safety, handling, and ride of your vehicle.
Spare Tires — If Equipped 
NOTE:
For  vehicles  equipped  with  Tire  Service  Kit
instead of a spare tire  
Ú
 page 198.
Spare Tire Matching Original Equipped Tire 
And Wheel — If Equipped  
Your vehicle may be equipped with a spare tire
and  wheel  equivalent  in  look  and  function  to
the original equipment tire and wheel found on
the front or rear axle of your vehicle. This spare
tire  may  be  used  in  the  tire  rotation  for  your
vehicle. If your vehicle has this option, refer to
an  authorized  tire  dealer  for  the  recom -
mended tire rotation pattern.
 WARNING!
Do  not use  a  tire,  wheel size,  load rating,
or  speed  rating  other  than  that  specified
for  your  vehicle.  Some  combinations  of
unapproved tires and wheels may change
suspension dimensions and performance
characteristics,  resulting  in  changes  to
steering,  handling,  and  braking  of  your
vehicle.  This  can  cause  unpredictable
handling  and  stress  to  steering  and
suspension  components.  You  could  lose
control  and  have  a  collision  resulting  in
serious  injury  or  death.  Use  only  the  tire
and  wheel  sizes  with  load  ratings
approved for your vehicle.
Never use a tire with a smaller load index
or capacity, other than what was originally
equipped on your vehicle. Using a tire with
a  smaller  load  index  could  result  in  tire
overloading  and  failure.  You  could  lose
control and have a collision.
Failure  to  equip  your  vehicle  with  tires
having  adequate  speed  capability  can
result  in  sudden  tire  failure  and  loss  of
vehicle control.
 CAUTION!
Replacing  original  tires  with  tires  of  a
different  size  may  result  in  false
speedometer and odometer readings.
 CAUTION!
Because  of  the  reduced  ground  clearance,
do  not  take  your  vehicle  through  an
automatic  car  wash  with  a  compact  or
limited  use  temporary  spare  installed.
Damage to the vehicle may result.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 244