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TIRE CARE AND SERVICE
1. Tire Sidewall Markings
Tire Size: A combination of alphabetic and numeric characters that indicate the nominal
dimensions of a tire:
Load Index: A
numerical code indicating the maximum load carrying capacity of a tire at
the maximum cold inflation pressure.
LOAD MAXIMUM LOAD PER TIRE LOADMAXIMUM LOAD PER TIRE
INDEX KgLbsINDEX KgLbs
80 450 9921069502094
81 4621018 1079752149
82 4751047 1081000 2205
83 4871074 1091030 2271
84 5001102 1101060 2337
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*For tires having a maximum speed capability above 149 mph, a “ZR” may appear in the size designation;
ab
ove 186 mph, a “ZR” must appear in the size designation, including a ”Y” speed symbol in brackets.
Other Markings:
P - As part of the tire size designation (e.g., P205/65R15), is used to indicate the tires
i
ntended for service on passenger cars.
LT - As part of the tire size designation (e.g. LT235/75R15), is used to indicate the tires
a
re intended for service on light truck vehicles.
M&S - Letters used to indicate a tire suitable for Mud and Snow and/or All Season usage.
X
L - As part of the size designation (e.g. P235/75R16 XL), is used to indicate the tire can
c
arry more load as the maximum inflation pressure and load are greater than a standard
load version. (Also could be called REINFORCED).
2. Tire Categories
ALL SEASON TIRES (ALL WEATHER TIRES): Tires that are designed to perform in a variety
of road conditions in all seasons of the year. An all season tire will carry “M+S”, “M&S”,
or “M/S” designation on the sidewall. All Season tires may carry a Limited Treadwear
Warranty depending on line.
SUMMER TIRES (MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE, HIGH PERFORMANCE, ULTRA HIGH
P E
RFORMANCE): Summer Performance tires offer superior handling, grip and cornering
ability compared to standard tires. They are rated for operation at higher speeds.
Maximum Performance, High Performance and Ultra High Performance categories each
have different performance characteristics, UTQG ratings and rate of wear depending on
line. Some lines may carry a limited treadwear warranty.
WINTER TIRES (SNOW TIRES): A winter tire is a tire with a tread design and compound
m a
de specifically for snowy and icy conditions and is identified by M&S, M+S or M/S
markings on the sidewalls. Tires designed for use in severe snow conditions are further Q
160 99
R 170 105
S 180 112
T 190 118
U 200 124
H 210 130
V 240 149
W 270 168
Y ( *ZR
) 3
00186
(Y) ABOVE 300 ABOVE 186
SPEED SYMBOL MAXIMUM SPEED
KM/H MPH
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identified with a pictograph of a mountain with a snowflake on the sidewalls and must
meet specific snow performance test requirements. Pirelli Winter tires do not carry a
mileage warranty.
The information provided above is an overview of tire types. Tread patterns and rubber
c o
mpounds vary among the seasonal tire types and provide varying performance
characteristics and limitations based on your individual needs and vehicle specifications.
Summer performance tires are different than winter and all season types. To determine
which Pirelli lines carry a Limited Treadwear Warranty, please refer to The PTI Treadwear
Mileage Warranty Conditions and Mileage Warranty sections found in this document.
3. Pressure Recommendations
Recommended tire inflation pressures for your vehicle can be found either on your
vehicle’s tire placard or in your vehicle owner’s manual. Correct pressures are related to
load, speed and vehicle handling and are vital for even braking, maximum traction and
good tire life. Under no circumstances should your tire’s cold inflation pressure be less
than that indicated on your vehicle’s tire placard or in your vehicle owner’s manual or
higher than the maximum cold inflation pressure molded on to the tire’s sidewall.
Underinflation causes excessive flexing, deterioration of the tire and rapid wear of the
tread edges. Overinflation results in an uncomfortable ride, a reduced area of tire contact
with the road surface (i.e., smaller tire footprint), higher susceptibility to impact damage
and rapid wear on the tread center.
Inflation pressure must be checked at least once a month and should be checked only
w h
en the tire is cold or before it has been driven. Driving even a short distance
(1 kilometer or 2 to 3 minutes) causes tires to heat up and the air pressure to increase
a p
proximately 4 psi. In case it is necessary to adjust the air pressure in tires that have
been driven, the air pressure should be increased to a gauge reading of 4 psi higher than
the recommended cold inflation pressure.
For Example Only:
WARNING!
Driving on tires with improper inflation pressure is dangerous. These situations can
cause a tire failure, including tread/belt separation, even at a later date, which could
lead to an accident and serious personal injury or death.
Gauge Reading of Hot Tire: 27 PSI
Recommended Cold Inflation Pressure: 26 PSI
Desired Gauge Reading of Hot Tire: 26 PSI + 4 PSI = 30 PSI
Therefore: Add 3 PSI
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Check the cold inflation pressure on the tires, at least by the next day. Never reduce or
“bleed” pressure from hot tires since your tires will then be underinflated when they cool
down. Always use a reliable pressure gauge.
4. Ultra High Performance (UHP) Summer Tires
Rubber compounds formulated for ultra high performance summer tires can lose
flexibility and may develop random surface cracks at cold temperatures. Therefore extra
care should be used in handling tires in this condition. These compounds are optimized
for maximum dry and wet performance in warm conditions. Special tread compounds in
these tires will have decreased performance, such as lateral and braking traction, at
temperatures below 7° C or when driving on snow or ice. Therefore, it is recommended
to install winter tires in these conditions.
5. DOT Street Legal Competition Tires
P Zero Trofeo and P Zero Corsa tire lines use special tire construction and compounds to
achieve their distinctive performance in dry conditions. As a result of that, their
performance in cold temperatures, heavy rain or standing water will be decreased. Use
extreme caution and drive slowly on wet roads.
The minimum tread depth will be reached earlier than normal road tires, resulting in
re
duced tread life.
6. Winter Tires
The standard Pirelli tires may be effective in light snow conditions. However, for winter
use, you may wish to install winter tires. During winter use, Pirelli strongly recommends
the fitment of four winter tires. Please check your vehicle owner’s manual concerning
winter tire size recommendation. If the winter tires have a lower speed rating than the
original equipment tires, vehicle handling may be affected, and the vehicle maximum
speed must be reduced to the winter tire speed rating.
Pirelli requires
that studded tires be installed on all four positions. Installing studded
tires only on the drive positions of any vehicle, including a front wheel drive vehicle, may
cause adverse handling characteristics.
7. Run Flat Tires
Always refer to the vehicle owners’ manual with respect to specific safety and operating
information relating to the vehicle. Damaged Run Flat tires or Run Flat tires that have
experienced a loss of pressure should immediately be replaced with another Run Flat tire
of identical size and Service Description (Load Index and Speed Symbol).
Run Flat tires have been developed based on the specifications of the vehicles on which
t h
ey are mounted. Accordingly, Run Flat tires should only be mounted on vehicles
specifically manufactured to accommodate Run Flat tires.
Run Flat tires must be mounted in conjunction with a functional Tire Pressure Monitoring
S y
stem (TPMS).
The mounting of tires and installation of the TPMS should be carried out by a specialized
d e
aler.
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8. Tire Replacement
The tires fitted to your vehicle as original equipment were tested and approved by the
vehicle manufacturer and the tire manufacturer and take into account all aspects of the
vehicle’s operation. Changes in the tire size, type or construction should not be made
without seeking advice from the vehicle or tire manufacturer or an authorized Pirelli
dealer since unapproved tires on your vehicle could adversely affect steering, handling,
braking and traction. The tire information (tire size, load index and speed symbol) as
found on the vehicle placard or in the owner’s manual should always be followed when
replacing tires.
It is strongly recommended that Pirelli tires be mounted in sets of four with the same
t r
ead type. Pirelli tires should not be mixed with other tire brands. It is necessary to follow
this procedure because different tire constructions have different handling
characteristics. Tires on the same axle must be the same manufacturer, brand, tire size,
load index, speed rating and Pirelli part number.
When changing only two tires on a vehicle which is homogeneously fitted (four tires of the
sa
me tire size), fit the new tires on the rear axle. This applies to all vehicles regardless of
their drive axle. (Front or Rear Drive).
On all wheel drive or four wheel drive vehicles the tires must always be replaced in sets
o f
four.
When replacing tires on light truck vehicles, you should always follow the vehicle
m a
nufacturer’s recommendations. Passenger and light truck tires are not
interchangeable, due to differences in their pressures and load carrying capacity.
P-Metric and Euro-metric Interchangeability: Euro-metric (Example: 225/45R17) tires
h a
ve a load index which is equal to or greater than that of the same size P-metric
(Example: P225/45R17) tire. Therefore, they have the same or higher load carrying
capacity at the maximum rated inflation pressure. Always check with your tire dealer or
Pirelli Tire Consumer Affairs to be sure of the exact interchangeability to maintain proper
vehicle dynamics.
Please be aware that it is important that, before fitting the suggested tires, the fitment is
a l
lowed by the technical specifications of the vehicle, the vehicle manufacturer and the
relevant homologations. Pirelli Tire does not express any view as to the compatibility of
the wheel/tire combination with the technical specifications for the chassis and vehicle.
TO MAINTAIN PROPER VEHICLE DYNAMICS AND LOAD CARRYING CAPACITY,
R E
PLACEMENT TIRES MUST ALWAYS HAVE A LOAD INDEX AND SPEED SYMBOL EQUAL
TO OR GREATER THAN THOSE FITTED AS ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT.
When making plus size fitments, you should consult with the dealer regarding any
s u
spension or braking system modifications which may be recommended for the vehicle.
9. Tire Inspection
As a minimum, tires (including the spare tire) should be examined and air pressure
checked monthly and always prior to long trips. They should also be examined if you
strike any unusual object on the road. Tires showing bulges, cracks, cuts, penetrations
or uneven wear must be dismounted and examined by an authorized Pirelli tire dealer
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and replaced if necessary. Pirelli tires have treadwear indicators in the tread grooves,
which show up when the tread has worn to 2/32 of an inch remaining. At this point, your
tires must be replaced because they are illegal and dangerous.
The mere passage of time (age) does not cause tires to deteriorate, but rather exposure
to
outside forces. Such outside forces can include, but are not limited to: road hazards,
punctures, improper repairs, misalignment, underinflated operation, overinflated
operation, excessive heat caused by over deflected operation, excessive exposure to
ozone, improper storage conditions, etc. Tire companies can only have an impact on a
few of these exposures. Tire companies add antiozinants and anti-oxidants
(anti-degradation compounds) to minimize degradation. Pirelli believes that since there
is no way to accurately predict what outside forces a tire will be exposed to there is no
scientifically supportable age limit that can be set for tires.
To avoid cosmetic damage, use a mild soap solution to clean sidewalls and rinse off with
l o
w-pressure tap water. Never apply cleaners or dressings to enhance sidewall
appearance to avoid removal of antioxidants, which are intended to prevent ozone
degradation. The removal of anti-oxidants may degrade the rubber and can lead to
sidewall cracking. Use of high-pressure sprayers may cause sidewall damage.
10. Tire Rotation
Pirelli recommends that you follow the tire rotation procedure as defined in your vehicle
owner’s manual. If there is no procedure, PTI recommends tire rotation every 8,000 to
11,000 kilometers to optimize your tire wear.
11. Tire Repair
Punctures, nail holes or cuts located in the tread area of Pirelli radial tires may be
repaired if the diameter does not exceed six mm. The repair material used must seal the
inner liner and fill the injury to be considered a permanent repair. Tire and Rubber
Association of Canada and industry approved repair methods include a combination of
plug and patch; chemical or hot vulcanizing patches, and head type plugs, all applied
from inside the tire. A self-vulcanizing plug repair may be used only in conjunction with a
patch repair, but not by itself. Plugs may cause further damage to the tire, they are not
always airtight and the plug may fail. If a tire puncture exceeds six mm or is located in
the shoulder or sidewall deflection areas, the tire must be replaced. Never resort to tubes
(in tubeless tires) or sleeves or large thick patches, which can upset the balance and may
result in a sudden failure at highway speeds and high operating temperatures.
WARNING!
Driving on a damaged tire is dangerous, as the tire can suddenly fail, which can lead
to an accident and serious personal injury or death.
WARNING!
Driving on an improperly repaired tire is dangerous, as the tire can suddenly fail, which
can lead to an accident and serious personal injury or death.
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PIRELLI TIRE DOES NOT ENDORSE:
• T he use of tire sealants in Pirelli tires to repair, even temporarily, a puncture
•
The repairing of V, W, Y or Z Speed Rated tires
•
The repairing of Run Flat tires
12. Storage
Should you need to store tires after removal from a vehicle (as in the case of winter tires),
they should be stored in a cool, dry place. To protect your tires from damage related to:
heat, water, ozone and direct sunlight, it is suggested you place them in opaque,
waterproof containers (e.g., plastic trash bags).
13. Tubes in Tubeless Tires
Under no circumstances are tubes to be used in Pirelli tires marked “Tubeless”. This
includes tires that have been repaired. If the tire’s pressure retention ability has been
affected, so as to necessitate a tube being installed, the tire must be replaced.
14. Tire Valves
Whenever new tires are installed on your wheels, new tire valves of the correct type must
be installed. During your routine tire inspection, verify that all your valves have proper
valve caps. Replace as necessary, since the valve cap is also a seal against pressure
loss.
15. Tire Demounting and Mounting
Tire fitting is best left to professionals who have the proper tools and equipment to
perform the task properly and safely. Your tires should be mounted or demounted, using
Tire and Rubber Association of Canada procedures or the vehicle manufacturers’
recommendations. Your wheels should be in good, clean condition. Wheels should be
inspected for distortion, dents, cracks, rust and foreign matter, and be replaced as
necessary. NEVER EXCEED 40 PSI WHEN SEATING BEADS.
16. Tire/Wheel Alignment and Balancing
Tire/Wheel alignment specifications are issued by your vehicle manufacturer and your
vehicle must be kept within these tolerances. You should have your alignment checked
annually or whenever you notice any irregular wear or vibrations. Tire/Wheel assemblies
should be balanced each time a tire is fitted to a wheel. Tire/Wheel alignment and
balancing are important for safety and maximum performance and mileage from your
tires.
For more information or service regarding Pirelli tires, please contact your nearest
A u
thorized Pirelli Dealer. To locate an authorized Pirelli Dealer in your area, refer to the
Dealer Locator section on the Pirelli web site at www.ca.pirelli.com.
P ZERO, P ZERO CORSA, P ZERO ROSSO, P ZERO NERO, CINTURATO, SCORPION,
S C
ORPION ZERO, SCORPION VERDE, P3000, P1, P4, P5, P6, P7 are trademarks of Pirelli
Tyre S.p.A.
“Confidence Program” is a trademark of Pirelli Tire Inc.
TOYO TIRES® – LIMITED WARRANTY
164
• Any tire which has been run with low air pressure or while flat.
• Damage due to abuse; vandalism; tire alteration; tire spinning; racing; or other
c
ompetitive activities.
• D amage, corrosion, or deterioration from using oil-based chemicals, water-based
s
ealers, balancing substances, or flammable gases.
• D amage from improper use of tire chains.
T
ires with the DOT identification number removed or rendered illegible.
Improper mounting, balancing or repair, not limited to:
• I mproper tire mounting, or tire/wheel assembly imbalance.
•
Damage from incorrect mounting or dismounting of the tire, incorrect wheel size,
w
ater or other material trapped inside the tire during mounting, or failure to keep the
tires balanced.
• D amage resulting from improper repair materials or procedures.
F
ailure to meet conditions of this Limited Warranty, not limited to:
• A ny tire that is not an Eligible Tire.
•
Any tire for which mileage and tire rotation records are not available or verifiable.
•
Any tire not presented and available for Toyo Tires® inspection.
•
Any tire worn beyond the treadwear indicators (less than 2/32 of an inch of remaining
t
read).
• U niformity issues after the first 25% of treadwear.
T
emporary spare tires that are used at speeds over 50 miles per hour.
Nothing in this Limited Warranty is intended to be a representation that tire failures
c a
nnot occur.
WHAT TOYO TIRES® WILL DO
For every Eligible Tire, Toyo Tires® will do the following:
Regular OE Tires
1. I f less than 25% Worn: Toyo Tires® will replace, free of charge, any Eligible Tire when
t
he original usable tread is worn by 25% or less, and within 5 years from the date you
purchased the vehicle new. If you cannot provide a copy of the new vehicle registra -
tion or vehicle purchase receipt, the manufacture date of the tire, as indicated by the
t i
re DOT code, will be used instead to determine if a tire is within the warranty period.
Tire mounting and balancing costs are covered by Toyo Tires®. You are responsible
for taxes and all other costs, fees and expenses.
2. I f more than 25% Worn: Toyo Tires® will replace any Eligible Tire when the original
u
sable tread is worn by more than 25%, and within 5 years from the date you
purchased the vehicle new. If you cannot provide a copy of the new vehicle registra -
tion or vehicle purchase receipt, the manufacture date of the tire, as indicated by the