
446SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE  
Tire Identification Number (TIN)
The Tire Identification Number (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.Load Identification:
Absence of the following load identification symbols on the sidewall of the tire indicates a Standard Load (SL) tire:
XL = Extra load (or reinforced) tire, or
LL
 = Light load tire or
C, D, E, F, G  = Load range associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at a specified pressure
Maximum Load  – Maximum load indicates the maximum load this tire is designed to carry
Maximum Pressure  – Maximum pressure indicates the maximum permissible cold tire inflation pressure for this tire
EXAMPLE:
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
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE447
Tire Terminology And Definitions
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
Term Definition
B-pillarThe 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).
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 The 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.
EXAMPLE:
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448SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE  
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 pressure 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 in 
Vehicle Loading  Ú page 211.
NOTE:Under a maximum loaded vehicle condition, Gross 
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear 
axles must not be exceeded. 
For further information on GAWR, vehicle loading, 
and trailer towing  Ú page 211.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE449
To determine the maximum loading conditions of 
your vehicle, locate the statement “The combined 
weight of occupants and cargo should never 
exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on the Tire and Loading 
Information placard. The combined weight of 
occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue 
weight (if applicable) should never exceed the 
weight referenced here.
Steps For Determining Correct Load 
Limit—
(1) Locate the statement “The combined 
weight of occupants and cargo should 
never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your 
vehicle's placard.
(2) Determine the combined weight of 
the driver and passengers that will be 
riding in your vehicle.
(3) Subtract the combined weight of the 
driver and passengers from XXX kg or 
XXX lbs. (4) The resulting figure equals the 
available amount of cargo and luggage 
load capacity. For example, if “XXX” 
amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will 
be five 150 lb passengers in your 
vehicle, the amount of available cargo 
and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. 
(1400-750 (5x150) = 650 lbs.)
(5) Determine the combined weight of 
luggage and cargo being loaded on the 
vehicle. That weight may not safely 
exceed the available cargo and luggage 
load capacity calculated in Step 4.
(6) If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, 
load from your trailer will be transferred 
to your vehicle. Consult this manual to 
determine how this reduces the 
available cargo and luggage load 
capacity of your vehicle.
Metric Example For Load Limit
For example, if “XXX” amount equals 635 kg and 
there will be five 68 kg passengers in your vehicle, 
the amount of available cargo and luggage load 
capacity is 295 kg (635-340 (5x68) = 295 kg) as 
shown in step 4.
NOTE:
If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from 
your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. 
The following table shows examples on how to 
calculate total load, cargo/luggage, and towing 
capacities of your vehicle with varying seating 
configurations and number and size of occu
-
pants. This table is for illustration purposes only 
and may not be accurate for the seating and 
load carry capacity of your vehicle.
For the following example, the combined weight 
of occupants and cargo should never exceed 
865 lbs (392 kg).
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE453
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.
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 TPMS sensor as it is 
not designed to be reused when driven under Run 
Flat mode 14 psi (96 kPa) condition.
NOTE:The TPMS 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 328.
Tire Spinning 
When stuck in mud, sand, snow, or ice conditions, 
do not spin your vehicle's wheels above 30 mph 
(48 km/h) or for longer than 30 seconds 
continuously without stopping.
For further information  Ú page 389.
Tread Wear Indicators 
Tread wear indicators are in the original equipment 
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.
For further information  Ú page 454.
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
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454SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE  
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 pres -
sures 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 maintenance is highly 
recommended
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 gasoline.
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 equivalent to the 
originals in size, quality and performance when 
replacement is needed  Ú
page 453. Refer to the 
Tire and Loading Information placard or the 
Vehicle Certification 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.
For more information relating to the Load Index 
and Speed Symbol of a tire  Ú page 445.
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 specifications or 
capability. Failure to use equivalent replacement 
tires may adversely affect the safety, handling, and 
ride of your vehicle.
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.
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 unpre -
dictable 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 over -
loading 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.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE455
TIRE TYPES
All Season Tires — If Equipped
All Season tires provide traction for all seasons 
(Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter). Traction 
levels may vary between different all season tires. 
All season tires can be identified by the M+S, M&S, 
M/S or MS designation on the tire sidewall. Use all 
season tires only in sets of four; failure to do so 
may adversely affect the safety and handling of 
your vehicle.
Summer Or Three Season Tires — If 
Equipped
Summer tires provide traction in both wet and dry 
conditions, and are not intended to be driven in 
snow or on ice. If your vehicle is equipped with 
Summer tires, be aware these tires are not 
designed for Winter or cold driving conditions. 
Install Winter tires on your vehicle when ambient 
temperatures are less than 40°F (5°C) or if roads 
are covered with ice or snow. For more 
information, contact an authorized dealer. Summer tires do not contain the all season 
designation or mountain/snowflake symbol on the 
tire sidewall. Use Summer tires only in sets of four; 
failure to do so may adversely affect the safety and 
handling of your vehicle.
Snow Tires  
Some areas of the country require the use of snow 
tires during the Winter. Snow tires can be identified 
by a “mountain/snowflake” symbol on the tire 
sidewall.
If you need snow tires, select tires 
equivalent in size and type to the 
original equipment tires. Use snow tires 
only in sets of four; failure to do so may 
adversely affect the safety and handling of your 
vehicle.
Snow tires generally have lower speed ratings than 
what was originally equipped with your vehicle and 
should not be operated at sustained speeds over 
75 mph (120 km/h). For speeds above 75 mph 
(120 km/h) refer to original equipment or an  authorized tire dealer for recommended safe 
operating speeds, loading and cold tire inflation 
pressures.
While studded tires improve performance on ice, 
skid and traction capability on wet or dry surfaces 
may be poorer than that of non-studded tires. 
Some states prohibit studded tires; therefore, local 
laws should be checked before using these tire 
types.
SPARE TIRES — IF EQUIPPED   
NOTE:For vehicles equipped with Tire Service Kit instead 
of a spare tire, please refer to “Tire Service Kit” in 
“In Case Of Emergency” for further information.
For restrictions when towing with a spare tire 
designated for temporary emergency use  
Ú
page 220.
CAUTION!
Replacing original tires with tires of a different 
size may result in false speedometer and 
odometer readings.
WARNING!
Do not use Summer tires in snow/ice conditions. 
You could lose vehicle control, resulting in 
severe injury or death. Driving too fast for 
conditions also creates the possibility of loss of 
vehicle control.
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.
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456SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE  
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 recommended tire rotation 
pattern.
Compact Spare Tire — If Equipped  
The compact spare is for temporary emergency 
use only. You can identify if your vehicle is 
equipped with a compact spare by looking at the 
spare tire description on the Tire and Loading 
Information Placard located on the driver’s side 
door opening or on the sidewall of the tire. 
Compact spare tire descriptions begin with the 
letter “T” or “S” preceding the size designation. 
Example: T145/80D18 103M.
T, S = Temporary Spare Tire
Since this tire has limited tread life, the original 
equipment tire should be repaired (or replaced) 
and reinstalled on your vehicle at the first 
opportunity. Do not install a wheel cover or attempt to mount a 
conventional tire on the compact spare wheel, 
since the wheel is designed specifically for the 
compact spare tire. Do not install more than one 
compact spare tire and wheel on the vehicle at any 
given time.
Collapsible Spare Tire — If Equipped
The collapsible spare is for temporary emergency 
use only. You can identify if your vehicle is 
equipped with a collapsible spare by looking at the 
spare tire description on the Tire and Loading 
Information Placard located on the driver’s side 
door opening or on the sidewall of the tire.
Collapsible spare tire description
example: 165/80-17 101P.Since this tire has limited tread life, the original 
equipment tire should be repaired (or replaced) 
and reinstalled on your vehicle at the first 
opportunity.
Inflate collapsible tire only after the wheel is 
properly installed to the vehicle. Inflate the 
collapsible tire using the electric air pump before 
lowering the vehicle.
Do not install a wheel cover or attempt to mount a 
conventional tire on the collapsible spare wheel, 
since the wheel is designed specifically for the 
collapsible spare tire.
WARNING!
Compact and collapsible spares are for 
temporary emergency use only. With these 
spares, do not drive more than 50 mph
(80 km/h). Temporary use spares have limited 
tread life. When the tread is worn to the tread 
wear indicators, the temporary use spare tire 
needs to be replaced. Be sure to follow the 
warnings, which apply to your spare. Failure to 
do so could result in spare tire failure and loss of 
vehicle control.
WARNING!
Compact and Collapsible spares are for 
temporary emergency use only. With these 
spares, do not drive more than 50 mph
(80 km/h). Temporary use spares have limited 
tread life. When the tread is worn to the tread 
wear indicators, the temporary use spare tire 
needs to be replaced. Be sure to follow the 
warnings, which apply to your spare. Failure to 
do so could result in spare tire failure and loss of 
vehicle control.
22_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 456