BFGOODRICH® TIRES
32
FOLLOW THESE MOUNTING RECOMMENDATIONS
Tire changing can be dangerous and must be done by professionally trained persons
us
ing proper tools and procedures as specified by the Rubber Manufacturers
Association (RMA).
Your tires should be mounted on wheels of correct size and type and which are in good,
c le
an condition. Wheels that are bent, chipped, rusted (steel wheels) or corroded (alloy
wheels) may cause tire damage. The inside of the tire must be free from foreign material.
Have your retailer check the wheels before mounting new tires. Mismatched tires and
rims can explode during mounting. Also, mismatched tires and rims can result in
dangerous tire failure on the road. If a tire is mounted by error on the wrong-sized rim, do
not remount it on the proper rim — scrap it. It may have been damaged internally (which
is not externally visible) by having been dangerously stretched and could fail on the
highway.
Old valves may leak. When new tubeless tires are mounted, have new valves of the
c o
rrect type installed. Tubeless tires must only be mounted on wheels designed for
tubeless tires i.e., wheels which have safety humps or ledges.
It is recommended that you have your tires and wheels balanced. Tires and wheels which
a r
e not balanced may cause steering difficulties, a bumpy ride, and irregular tire wear.
Be sure that all your valves have suitable valve caps. The valve cap is the primary seal
a g
ainst air loss.
SERVICE LIFE FOR PASSENGER CAR AND LIGHT TRUCK TIRES INCLUDING SPARE
TIRES
The following recommendation applies to passenger car and light truck tires. Tires are
composed of various types of material and rubber compounds, having performance
properties essential to the proper functioning of the tire itself. These component
properties evolve over time. For each tire, this evolution depends upon many factors
such as weather, storage conditions, and conditions of use including load, speed,
inflation pressure, maintenance etc. to which the tire is subjected throughout its life. This
service-related evolution varies widely so that accurately predicting the serviceable life
of any specific tire in advance is not possible.
In addition to regular inspections and inflation pressure maintenance by consumers, it is
re
commended to have passenger car and light truck tires, including spare tires,
inspected regularly by a qualified tire specialist, such as a tire dealer, who will assess the
tire’s suitability for continued service. Tires which have been in use for five years or more
should continue to be inspected by a specialist at least annually.
Consumers are strongly encouraged to be aware not only of their tires’ visual condition
an
d inflation pressure but also of any change in dynamic performance such as increased
air loss, noise or vibration, which could be an indication that the tires need to be removed
from service to prevent tire failure.
BRIDGESTONE® - FIRESTONE®
47
This manual is not intended to provide proper training or service procedures for tire
mounting, demounting, balancing, rotation, or repair. Please leave these tasks to
qualified tire service professionals. For your safety and that of others:
• A lways stand well clear of any tire mounting operation. This is especially important
w
hen the service operator inflates the tire. If the tire has been improperly mounted, it
may burst with explosive force causing serious personal injury or death.
• T ires must match the width and diameter requirements of the wheels. For example,
1
6 inch diameter tires must only be mounted to 16 inch diameter wheels. Radial tires
m u
st only be mounted to wheels approved for radial tires.
• W heels must be free of cracks, dents, chips, and rust. Tires must be free of bead
d
amage, cuts, and punctures.
• N ever inflate a tire beyond 40 psi (275 kPa) to seat the beads. Be absolutely certain
b
eads are fully seated before adjusting inflation pressure to the level recommended
for vehicle operation.
• N ever put flammable substances in tire/wheel assemblies at any time. Never put any
f
lammable substance into a tire/wheel assembly and attempt to ignite to seat the
beads.
• A lways stand well away from the work area when tires are being spin balanced either
o
n or off the vehicle.
HIGH PERFORMANCE, LOW ASPECT RATIO TIRES
Many new vehicles come equipped from the factory with high performance and/or low
aspect ratio tires. Generally, these tires provide increased vehicle handling capability,
but may also have numerous engineering performance trade-offs associated with their
designs.
• Lo w aspect ratio tires, with reduced sidewall height, may be more susceptible to
d
amage from potholes, road hazards, and other objects such as curbs. This is true for
the wheels as well. Therefore, as with all other tires, it is important to drive with care
and maintain proper inflation pressure and load conditions. See “Tire Inflation Pres -
sure” and “Tire Damage, Inspection and Service Life” in this manual.
• Some sports cars and other handling performance enhanced vehicles, including s
edans and light trucks/SUVs, may be originally equipped with high performance tires
that are more optimized for warmer weather use. Colder, winter weather traction may
be reduced for these types of tires. Winter tires may be recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer for colder weather application. See “Winter Tires,” the next section in
this manual.
• H igh performance tires may also wear more quickly, ride more firmly, and produce
m
ore noise during operation.
Consult your vehicle Owner’s Manual and tire information placard, or a qualified tire
s e
rvice professional, for more information and specifics regarding these types of tires.
BRIDGESTONE® - FIRESTONE®
52
If your spare is the same size, load rating, and type of tire as your road tires, it should be
included in the tire rotation process. For vehicles with a “full-size” spare, the following
rotation patterns may be used:
NOTE:
• Never include a “temporary use” spare tire in the rotation.
•
Tires with directional tread patterns must be rotated so the direction of revolution
d
oes not change; this may require demounting/mounting the tires.
• S pecial attention should be given if your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Moni -
t
oring System (TPMS). Rotation of your tires may affect the system; consult your
v e
hicle Owner’s Manual or a qualified tire service professional.
• S ome vehicles may have different size tires/wheels on front and rear which would
r
estrict rotation. Always check and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s rotation recom -
mendation.
• T o use a full-size spare in the rotation pattern on vehicles with dual rear wheels,
c
onsult your vehicle Owner’s Manual for the recommended procedures or consult the
vehicle manufacturer.
YOUR SPARE TIRE
Consult your vehicle Owner’s Manual for proper application of your spare tire. Your car
may be equipped with a “temporary use” spare tire; this spare may differ in size and
construction from the other tires on your vehicle.
WARNING!
Check inflation pressure before use. Failure to have proper inflation pressure when
using your spare tire can result in serious personal injury or death. See Tire Inflation
Pressure in this manual.
BRIDGESTONE® - FIRESTONE®
53
The spare tire in your vehicle is intended to be used as a spare when needed. The spare
tire carrier is not intended to be used for long term storage, except for “temporary use”
tires. If your spare is the same size, load rating, and type of tire as your road tires, it
should be included in the tire rotation process; see “Radial Tire Rotation” in this manual
for more information.
The spare should be included in regular tire inspections and inflation pressure checks.
In
addition, it should be replaced 10 years after date of manufacture, regardless of
condition or tread depth. For more information, see the “Tire Damage, Inspection and
Service Life” in this manual.
TIRE STORAGE
Tires should be stored indoors in a cool, dry place where water cannot collect inside
them. Tires should be placed away from electric generators/motors and sources of heat
such as hot pipes. Storage surfaces should be clean and free of grease, gasoline or other
substances which can deteriorate the rubber.
The spare tire in your vehicle is intended to be used as a spare when needed. The spare
t i
re carrier is not intended to be used for long term storage, except for “temporary use”
tires. For more information, see “Your Spare Tire” and “Radial Tire Rotation” in this
manual.
TIRE SERVICE CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Normal tire maintenance and Limited Warranty services are available at locations across
the US and Canada. For more information, visit us on the internet at
www.bridgestonetire.com , or please call the Technical Service Department:
US: 8 00-356-4644 or Canada: 800-267-1318.
A
dditional information on the care and service of automobile and light truck tires is
a v
ailable from the following organizations:
U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association 1400 K Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20005-2403
https://www.ustires.org/
Rubber Association of Canada 2000 Argentia Road, Plaza 4, Suite 250 Mississauga,
O n
tario L5N 1W1 https://www.tracanada.ca/
WARNING!
Mounting a “temporary use” tire on a wheel which is not specifically designed for it, or
placing another type tire on a wheel designated for temporary use, can be dangerous.
Your vehicle’s handling characteristics can be seriously affected. You could have an
accident resulting in serious personal injury or death. Consult your vehicle owner’s
manual for proper application of your “temporary use” spare tire.
WARNING!
Improper storage can damage your tires in ways that may not be visible and can lead
to a failure resulting in serious personal injury or death.
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59
DOT Symbol and Tire Identification Number: The “DOT” symbol constitutes a certification
that the tire conforms to applicable US Department of Transportation (DOT) motor
vehicle safety standards (for tires). Following the “DOT” symbol is the tire identification
number, also known as the DOT serial number or code. For example:
The DOT symbol and tire identification number can be found on at least one sidewall near
th
e wheel. The other sidewall may have a partial serial code that excludes (e) and (f)
above.
Maximum Load and Inflation: T
he maximum load and maximum inflation pressure is
marked on each sidewall in metric and English units. For example:
MAX LOAD 685 kg (1,510 lbs) AT 240 kPa (35 psi) MAX PRESS
NOTE:
The load and inflation values marked on the tire sidewall are maximum permissible
v a
lues for the tire only. Never assume that these values are the actual maximum load
capacity or recommended tire pressure values for your vehicle. See “Tire Inflation Pres -
sure,” “Tips for Safe Tire Inflation,” and “Tips for Safe Loading” in this manual.
Ply Composition and Materials: T
he actual number of plies in the sidewall and tread area
and the generic name(s) of their cord material(s) are marked on at least one sidewall. For
example:
• T READ 2 PLY POLYESTER + 2 STEEL
•
SIDEWALL 2 PLY POLYESTER
R
adial: Radial ply tires will have the word "radial" on at least one sidewall. An “R” in the
t
ire size designation also indicates radial ply construction.
Tubeless or Tube Type: T
ires are marked as either “tubeless” or “tube type,” whichever
is applicable, on at least one sidewall.
(a) DOT Symbol (d) Tire Manufacturer’s Code
(b) Manufacture Plant Code (e) Week of Production (01-52)
(c) Tire Size Code (f) Year of Production (last two digits of year)
* For tires produced from 2000-on. In the example above, the tire was produced in the 18th week of
2000. For tires produced prior to 2000, there is one digit in group (f) which identifies the last digit of the
year of production, i.e. “329” would likely signify the 32nd week of 1999, but could possibly signify the
32nd week of 1989. If in doubt, consult a qualified tire service professional.
FALKEN TIRE CORPORATION
75
• A plug and patch or plug/patch combo should be used to effectively repair a tire punc -
ture.
• I f anything seems questionable at any time during the repair process, ask your service
a
dvisor for more details and/or call the tire manufacturer to make sure the tire’s
warranty is not being voided.
TIRE MIX USAGE
TIRE SPEED RATINGS
Falken recommends replacing your tire(s) with the same speed rating as the original tires
equipped on your vehicle.
It is okay to use a lower speed rated tire when using Winter tires. However, speeds should
b e
reduced to match the tires new “maximum” speed capability.
Any tire that is repaired, damaged, abused, altered from its original state or retreaded
v o
ids the speed rating on that particular tire and should be considered a non-speed rated
tire.
HIGH PERFORMANCE, LOW ASPECT RATIO TIRES
Various new vehicles come equipped with high performance and/or low aspect ratio tires
from the factory. These tires generally provide increased vehicle handling
characteristics, but may also have engineering performance trade-offs related with their
designs. Low aspect ratio tires have reduced sidewall heights and may be more
vulnerable to damage from road hazards, potholes, and other objects, like curbs. Your
vehicle’s wheels are susceptible to these same dangers as well. Some vehicles may be
originally equipped with high performance tires that are designed for warmer weather
use, reducing traction in colder, winter weather conditions. High performance tires also
pose the possibility of wearing more quickly, giving a stiffer ride, and producing louder
noise than standard all-season tires during operation. Refer to your vehicle Owner’s
Manual, tire information placard, or qualified tire service professional for more
information about these kinds of tires.
WARNING!
Never mix tires of different size or construction and/or type on any axle. (Except for
temporary use as a spare tire.) Always refer to the vehicle’s owner manual for proper
tire fitments.
WARNING!
Falken does not recommend the use of mixing different speed ratings on a vehicle.
This can cause poor handling and unpredictable steering.
GOODYEAR® DUNLOP® TIRES
96
•TIRE SPINNING. On slippery surfaces such as snow, mud, ice, etc., do not spin tires in
excess of 35 mph (55 km/h), as indicated on the speedometer.
• EXCESSIVE WHEEL SPINNING.
This can also result in tire disintegration or axle failure.
TIRE CARE AND MAINTENANCE GUIDE
The easiest way to help ensure satisfactory mileage and performance from your
Goodyear® or Dunlop® tires is to give them a simple but frequent (at least monthly)
inspection for proper inflation, even tread wear and the presence of any damage.
DO MAINTAIN PROPER INFLATION PRESSURE IN YOUR TIRES
Proper inflation pressure is necessary for optimum tire performance, safety and fuel
economy. Check inflation pressures at least once a month and before long trips. Use an
accurate tire pressure gauge. Always check pressures when the tires are cold (when the
vehicle has been driven less than one mile). If you must check inflation when the tires
are hot, add 4 psi (27 kPa) to the recommended cold inflation pressure. It is difficult to
tell just by looking at radial tires whether they are underinflated.*
Furthermore, when operating a vehicle equipped with radial tires, it is difficult to notice
wh
en a tire has gone flat or nearly flat since the “feel” of the vehicle does not change
significantly.
*Evidence of air loss or repeated underinflation always requires expert inspection to
d e
termine the source of leakage and tire removal to determine repairability. To avoid
injury, NEVER attempt to reinflate a tire that has been run severely underinflated.
Progressive air loss may result from punctures, cuts, curbing, impacts or partial bead
unseating. Some fitment causes for air loss are (1) incomplete bead seating, (2) bead
tearing caused by a machine tool due to insufficient lubrication or improper adjustment.
Leaking valve core or rubber valve components should be replaced when problems are
detected and whenever tires are replaced.
WARNING!
Vehicle handling, traction, ride comfort and other performance parameters may be
significantly affected by a change in tire size or type. Before replacing tires, always
consult and follow the vehicle Owner’s Manual because some vehicle manufacturers
prohibit changing tire size. When selecting tires that are different from the original
equipment size make certain:
• The tires have adequate load-carrying capacity based on the vehicle placard.
•
The tires have sufficient inflation pressure to carry the load.
•
There is proper clearance with no interference points between the tire and vehicle.
T
he consumer must be aware to always drive safely and obey all traffic laws. Avoid
s u
dden, sharp turns or aggressive lane changes. Failure to follow any of these
warnings may result in loss of control of the vehicle, leading to an accident and
serious injury or death.
GOODYEAR® DUNLOP® TIRES
97
Always maintain inflation pressure at the level recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer as shown on the vehicle placard, vehicle certification label or in the vehicle
Owner’s Manual:
Underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure and may result in severe cracking,
c o
mponent separation or “blowout.” It reduces tire load capacity, allows excessive
sidewall flexing and increases rolling resistance, resulting in heat and mechanical
damage. Maintaining proper inflation pressure is the single most important thing you can
do to promote tire durability and maximize tread life.
Overinflation increases stiffness, which may deteriorate ride and generate unwanted
vi
bration. Overinflation also increases the chances of impact damage.
DON’T OVERLOAD YOUR VEHICLE
Check your vehicle Owner’s Manual to determine the load limits. Overloading your vehicle
places stress on your tires and other critical vehicle components. Overloading a vehicle can
cause poor handling or increased fuel consumption and may cause tire failure. Overloading
your tires can result in severe cracking, component separation or “blowout.”
Never fit your vehicle with new tires that have less load capacity than shown on the
ve
hicle tire placard and remember that optimum rim width is important for proper tire
load distribution and function. The maximum load capacity stamped on the sidewalls of
P-Metric & European Metric tires is reduced by 10% when used on a light truck, utility
vehicle or trailer. Never fit P-Metric or European Metric tires to light trucks that specify
LT-type replacement tires.
DO NOT SPIN YOUR TIRES EXCESSIVELY
Avoid excessive tire spinning when your vehicle is stuck in snow, ice, mud or sand. The
centrifugal forces generated by a free-spinning tire/wheel assembly may cause sudden
tire explosion, resulting in vehicle damage and/or serious personal injury to you or a
bystander. Never exceed 35 mph (55 km/h), as indicated on your speedometer. Use a
g e
ntle backward and forward rocking motion to free your vehicle for continued driving.
Never stand near or behind a tire spinning at high speeds, for example, while attempting
to push a vehicle that is stuck or when an on-the-car spin balance machine is in use.
DO CHECK YOUR TIRES FOR WEAR
Always remove tires from service when they reach 2/32 of an inch remaining tread
depth. All new tires have tread wear indicators which appear as smooth banks in the
tread grooves when they wear to the 2/32 of an inch level. Many wet weather accidents
result from skidding on bald or nearly bald tires. Excessively worn tires are also more
susceptible to penetrations.