Exceeding the tire's speed capability will cause overheating of the tire and sudden tire failure, possibly leading to loss of vehicle control. All Toyo passenger, light truck, and truck tires have a maximum speed rating depending on size and type. Consult your tire dealer or contact Toyo Tires at 800-442-8696 if you are not sure about the maximum speed rating of your tires. Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. does not endorse the operation of any vehicle in an unsafe or unlawful manner. Obey all local speed limits. Tire speed ratings do not imply that a vehicle can be safely driven at the speed for which the tire is rated. Speed ratings are based on laboratory tests that relate to performance on the road, but are not applicable if tires are underinflated, overloaded, worn out, damaged or altered.
Winter driving presents special challenges for vehicle handling. The use of winter tires, studs, and/or chains, while improving snow traction performance, requires additional caution with regard to braking, cornering, and speed. The use of snow tires may reduce the vehicle's handling and braking capability. It is important to drive with care not only on snow and ice, but on dry and wet roads as well. Toyo recommends that snow tires be installed in matched, sets of four. This also applies for studded winter tires. When snow tires of a lower speed rating compared to the original tires are installed, the vehicle's speed capability is reduced. Follow all recommendations in the vehicle owner's manual regarding the use of winter tires. Consult your tire dealer for information regarding seasonal restrictions for stud usage.
Replacement tires for any vehicle must be of a size, load range, and load capacity (by inflation) that are capable of supporting the load of the vehicle's originally installed (O.E.) tires. Failure to install tires with adequate load capacity will result in tire fatigue and sudden tire failure leading to possible loss of control or an accident.
NEVER MOUNT 16" RIM DIAMETER TIRES ON A 16.5" DIAMETER RIM! Any attempt to mount a 16" rim diameter tire on a 16.5" rim diameter will result in an explosion of the tire/rim assembly that can cause severe personal injury or death. Prior to mounting any 16" rim diameter tires, always check the rim/wheel identification stamp to verify the correct rim diameter. Always check the tire size molded onto the sidewall. NEVER exceed 40 psi when seating the beads on rims.
Warning for additional sizes:
To avoid an explosion of the tire/rim assembly and personal injury or death:
-Never attempt to mount 22" rim diameter tires on any 22.5" diameter rim!
-Never attempt to mount 24" rim diameter tires on any 24.5" diameter rim!
Tire installers should exercise extreme caution when replacing tires on light trucks. LT type tires (e.g. LT265/75R16) may not offer adequate load capacity when replacing P-metric type tires (e.g. P265/75R16), depending on the vehicle's load requirements and the tire's load/ply rating. LT type tires require much higher air pressures to carry equivalent loads of P-metric tires.
If P-metric type tires are used to replace LT-metric tires, installers should verify the load requirement of the vehicle by checking the tire information placard. Always make sure that replacement tires offer equal or more load capacity (by inflation) compared to the originally installed tires.
If P-metric, or metric tires are intended to replace originally installed LT type tires, the load capacity of the P-metric tire is reduced by 9% at any inflation value. Consult manufacturer's load and inflation charts. Contact Toyo Technical Service with any tire replacement questions: 800 442 8696 (Pacific time), or 888-444-8696 (Eastern time).
Consumers should be aware that the installation of larger diameter tires, including off-road type tires, combined with modified suspensions (lift kits) for increased off-road ground clearance will adversely affect the handling and maneuverability characteristics of the vehicle compared with the factory-equipped (original) vehicle.
When vehicles, especially light trucks, are lifted, the center of gravity is heightened, thus making them more prone to rollover. Rollover propensity is further increased with full passenger and/or cargo loads. Other aspects of handling and maneuverability may also be affected by altering the original manufacturer's design.
As with any vehicle, extreme care must be used to prevent loss of control or rollover during sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers.
Always wear seat belts and drive safely, recognizing that reduced speeds and specialized driving techniques may be required.
The installation of larger tire and wheel combinations will reduce the effectiveness of anti-lock braking systems and increase stopping distance.
Failure to safely drive any vehicle equipped with a lift kit may result in an accident resulting in serious injury or death.
Do not drive a lifted vehicle unless you are familiar with its unique handling characteristics and are confident of your ability to maintain control under all driving conditions. Some modifications (and combinations of modifications) are not recommended and may not be permitted in your state. Consult your owner's manual, the instructions accompanying the lift kit, and state laws before undertaking any vehicle suspension modifications. You are responsible for the legality and safety of the vehicle you modify using lift-kit and tire modifications.
This bulletin supersedes all prior Toyo publications related to tire inflation for multipurpose passenger vehicles, including recreational vehicles. The purpose of this bulletin is to disseminate Toyo's recommendation and policy regarding inflation and tire maintenance of original equipment tires and direct replacement tires (same size and load range) on multipurpose passenger vehicles.
For the purpose of this bulletin, multipurpose passenger vehicles include all vehicles equipped with LT designated tires or medium duty truck tires. Multipurpose passenger vehicles include recreational vehicles (including class A, C, and B RVs), busses, and EMS (emergency medical service) vehicles.
The vehicle's tire information placard (certification label) includes information regarding the tire size, inflation, GAWR and other information. The tire information placard is usually located on the driver's door hinge pillar,door latch post, or the door edge. In RVs the tire information placard is placed on the bulkhead at the left of the driver's seating position.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standard (FMVSS 571.120) requires the following of vehicle manufacturers in applying original tires to vehicles:
The sum of the maximum load ratings of the tires fitted to an axle shall not be less than the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) of \the axle system as specified on the vehicle's certification label (tire information placard).
Consequently, vehicle manufacturers are required by federal regulations to apply tires of a sufficient size, load range, and load capacity (by inflation) to support no less than the GAWR.
The maximum allowable weight the axle assembly is designed to support as determined by the vehicle manufacturer. This includes both the weight of the axle and the portion of the vehicle's weight carried by the axle.
The maximum permissible weight of the vehicle, including the unloaded vehicle weight plus all fluids, do not exceed the GVWR.
Consumers should make themselves aware of the loaded weight on each axle and wheel position of their vehicle and achieve as equal distribution of side-to-side weight as possible by redistributing cargo or payload as required. This can be determined by weighing each wheel position of the vehicle on a public scale. In any case where vehicle axle loads exceed the loads stated on the vehicle placard, all attempts should be made to reduce the vehicle's weight prior to driving. A vehicle must never be operated when the loaded weight of any axle exceeds the GAWR, nor should any vehicle be operated when the actual loaded weight exceeds the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
The practice of rotating tires on multi-purpose vehicles should take into consideration any past under-inflation of tires. Any tire that has been run under-inflated for any length of time may have become dangerously fatigued (damaged internally), and subject to sudden failure. The term 'under-inflation' may be defined as the operation of any tire below an inflation level required to support the tire's actual load (according to tire load & inflation charts). Toyo recommends that any tire that was known or suspected of being run under-inflated or overloaded should be dismounted and fully inspected by a qualified tire professional for any damage or indications of fatigue before being rotated or returned to service.
Vehicle operating conditions and tire maintenance practices vary widely. Tires should be routinely checked for damage or signs of fatigue or aging. This should be done at scheduled vehicle maintenance intervals and preferably on a lift so that the tires can be thoroughly inspected by a tire professional.
Under no circumstances should the tire inflation pressure be reduced below that stated on the vehicle's tire information (certification) placard to achieve improvements in ride comfort. If you do not know where the tire information placard is, contact your vehicle manufacturer for its location and tire inflation recommendation. For RVs, the certification label is usually placed on the wall or bulkhead to the left of the driver's position.
For vehicles equipped with air compressors: Some compressors may not be capable of inflating the tire to the required inflation pressure. In this case, consumers should take their vehicle to a retail tire shop or commercial vehicle repair shop with a higher capacity air compressor.
The cold tire inflation pressures of each wheel should be checked at least once per week and any corrections in cold tire inflation pressure should be made prior to a trip. "Cold" means that the tires are at the same temperature as the surrounding air, such as when the vehicle has been parked overnight. Never bleed air from a tire that has been run. It is normal for a tire's inflation pressure to increase (hot inflation pressure) after running (for example 30 minutes or more driving time).
All tires lose air at the rate of 1 – 1.5 PSI per month due to natural permeation of the air through the tire's rubber membrane. Always check the cold inflation pressure of any vehicle that has not been driven for several weeks and reinflate the tires to the placard pressure before driving.
Tire pressure is affected by the ambient temperature to the extent of approximately 1 PSI per 10° (F) change in temperature. As an example, a 20 degree (F) drop in temperature will result in a 2 PSI drop. A 20 degree (F) increase in ambient temperature will result in a 2 PSI increase. As ambient temperatures drop, tire pressures should be checked and the air pressures increased as required.
Aside from tire pressure fluctuations due to ambient temperature, any unexplained air loss, such as 1 PSI or more per week should be investigated for the cause(s), such as a nail puncture, leaking valve stem, etc., and corrected prior to driving.
Tires designated as 'LT' tires and medium duty truck tires have less resistance to heat build-up compared with passenger tires, and are more susceptible to internal damage and fatigue if they are run under-inflated, overloaded, or in excess of their (rated) speed capability. Driving at sustained high speeds with under-inflated and/or overloaded tires may lead to immediate tire failure. Driving in excess of the tire's speed capability – even if properly inflated – may result in sudden tire failure. Consult the tire manufacturer regarding the speed limitation of the size and type tire you are using. It is the driver's responsibility not to exceed posted speed limits.
Q: If my tire and axle loads are below the vehicle's GAWR, can Toyo recommend a more suitable air pressure than that shown on the vehicle's tire information placard?
A: No. The vehicle's placard pressure will provide some measure of air pressure "reserve" over that required for the actual load, thus providing a safety margin.
Q: What if the vehicle's certification placard inflation pressure is too high or low?
A: The vehicle's certification placard inflation is not determined at the whim of the vehicle manufacturer. It is established in accordance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS 571.120) that require the tire size, load range and load capacity (by inflation) shall provide load capacity not less than the vehicle's gross axle weight rating (GAWR). Although vehicle manufacturers must comply with this regulation, some originally installed tires may require higher or lower placard pressures depending on the size, load range, and load capacity of the tire.
Q: What are the consequences of inflating the tires to accommodate the actual loads?
A: If the inflation pressure corresponds to the actual tire load according to the tire manufacturer's load and pressure table, the tire will be running at 100% of its rated load at that pressure. This practice may not provide a sufficient safety margin. Any air pressure loss below the minimum required to carry the load can result in eventual tire failure.
Toyo Tires are designed and built with great care. Any tire, no matter how well constructed, can fail as a result of punctures, impact damage, improper inflation or other conditions resulting from use. Tire failures may create a risk of property damage or personal injury. To obtain the highest possible performance, they must be maintained properly.
Refer to your vehicle owner's manual for additional tire safety and service advice.
Tires can lose one psi (pound per square inch) per month under normal conditions.
Additionally, tires can lose one psi for every 10°F temperature drop. The combined effect of losing one psi per month over several months along with one psi for every 10°F temperature drop could add up to a serious "run low" condition.
Air pressure enables a tire to support the load, so proper inflation is critical.
It's impossible to determine whether tires are properly inflated just by looking at them. It is important to check your tires using an accurate tire gauge, which can be purchased at your tire dealer, auto supply store or other retailer. (See photo below)
Look for the manufacturer's recommended air pressure listed on the Tire Information Placard of your vehicle's door edge, door post, glove box, or inside of trunk lid. Example:
Underinflation can create an overload on tires. Check your air pressure every month to make sure it's up to specification, especially before long trips or when carrying extra weight.
Tire Inflation: Tire pressures, including the spare, should be checked at least once per month, before driving when the tires are cold (after the vehicle has been stopped for three hours or driven less than one mile). Do not reduce air pressure when tires are hot after being driven. Use a tire gauge to check pressure and maintain it at the level recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. If a tire loses more than one pound of air pressure per month, have it checked for leakage by your dealer. Proper inflation pressure is very important to tire life, safety, and vehicle handling; therefore, you should always maintain the correct inflation pressure in your tires according to your vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. In addition, your vehicle has a Tire Information Placard, which indicates the proper tire size and inflation pressure for your particular model vehicle. If you have changed the original size for an optional size, make sure to use the recommended air pressure provided by your authorized Toyo Tire dealer or contact Toyo Tires.
Driving on tires with too little air pressure is dangerous. Your tires will get overheated. This can cause a sudden tire failure that could lead to serious personal injury or death.
Air Pressure – Check Monthly. For accuracy, check your air pressure with a tire gauge when tires are cold (e.g., when your car has been parked overnight). Driving heats up tires and makes the reading incorrect. To check air pressure, follow these instructions below:
Underinflation or overloading creates excessive stresses and heat that will lead to tire failure. This could result in vehicle damage and/or serious injury or death. Proper inflation extends tire life and saves fuel. Maintain the inflation pressure listed on the tire information placard or the vehicle owner's manual.
Never inflate a tire unless it is secured to the vehicle or a tire mounting machine. Inflating an unsecured tire is dangerous. If it bursts, it could be hurled into the air with explosive force, resulting in serious personal injury or death.
Even if your vehicle is equipped with a low pressure monitoring system, you should check your tire's air pressure at least once per month when the tires are cold (example, after being parked overnight). Tire pressure warning systems are not a substitute for regular tire pressure maintenance. Read your vehicle's owner's manual regarding the operation of installed TPMS. Some tire pressure monitoring systems do not alert you until the tires are significantly under inflated, which may result in permanent tire damage and possible sudden tire failure. In the event that your tire low pressure monitoring system alarm is displayed, you should immediately pull over to a safe parking area and change the tire if necessary.
Regular inspection of your tires for road hazard damage is critical. Inspect your tires for damage such as cuts, bulges, cracks, penetrations, unusual wear patterns, splits or bruises in the tread or sidewall areas, etc. Bumps or bulges may indicate a separation in the tire structure. Tire failure from road hazard damage can occur soon after the damage — a day, a week, or even months later.
Never drive on a tire if such conditions appear. Driving on a damaged tire is dangerous. A damaged tire can suddenly fail, causing serious personal injury or death. Do not attempt to dismount, mount or repair a tire yourself. See your Toyo dealer immediately if any condition is discovered.
Tires should be replaced when tread is worn to 2/32" or sooner. Treadwear indicators are built into Toyo tire treads to show the 2/32" depth.
All states require that tires be replaced when the tread depth is worn to 2/32nd". Tires may lose sufficient wet and snow traction well before reaching 2/32nd" of wear. Many wet weather accidents result from skidding on bald or nearly bald tires. Excessively worn tires are also more susceptible to penetrations. Consider replacing your tires earlier if you drive in snow or wet conditions.
Always remove tires from service when they reach 2/32" remaining tread depth. Continued operation of your vehicle with tires in this condition can lead to tire failure and/or serious injury. Any retail tire dealer will be glad to measure your tire's tread depth for you.
Toyo recommends that tires be replaced in matched sets of four.
Driving on an improperly repaired tire is dangerous. An improper repair can cause further damage to the tire. It may suddenly fail, causing serious personal injury or death. To be safe, go to your authorized Toyo Tire dealer for professional inspection and proper tire repairs.
Before having the tire repaired, tell your authorized Toyo Tire dealer if you have used an aerosol puncture sealant to inflate/seal the tire. Aerosol puncture sealants could contain a highly flammable, explosive gas. Always remove the valve core outdoors, away from sources of excessive heat, flame or sparks and completely deflate the tire before removing it from the rim for repair.
If any tire has sustained a puncture, have the tire dismounted and inspected internally by an authorized Toyo dealer for possible damage that may have occurred.
Tire Alterations Can Be Dangerous! Remember - Do not perform or allow anyone to perform any alteration to your tires. Alterations may prevent proper performance, leading to tire damage, which can result in sudden tire destruction.
Toyo speed-rated passenger tires may be repaired and returned to service under the following conditions:
| ORIGINAL SPEED RATING | AFTER PUNCTURE REPAIR |
|---|---|
| Z, Y, W, V, H | H (Maximum speed 130 MPH) |
| T | T |
| S | S |
Toyo realizes it is not practical to alter or remove the existing speed-rating symbol on the repaired tire; However it is important that the consumer be aware of this change in speed rating of a repaired tire. THE MAXIMUM SPEED OF A VEHICLE IS LIMITED BY THE LOWEST SPEED-RATED TIRE ON THE CAR.
Important Reminder: A tire's speed rating is void if the tire is retreaded, damaged, abused or otherwise altered from its original condition. Thereafter, it should be treated as a non-speed-rated tire. In addition, retreaded passenger car, light-truck tires and medium-duty truck tires are not warranted by Toyo Tire (U.S.A.) Corporation, for any reason. Toyo Tire (U.S.A.) Corporation speed ratings and U.S. Department of Transportation test compliance certifications are voided for retreaded tires.
IMPORTANT: Always check the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation before replacing a tire with a different size and/or construction. When tires need to be replaced, don't guess what tire is right for your vehicle, first look at the tire information placard. It tells you the size of the tires that were on the vehicle as original equipment. Replacement tires for any vehicle must be of a size, load range, and load capacity (by inflation) that is capable of supporting the load of the vehicle's originally installed (O.E.) tires.
Failure to install tires with adequate load capacity will result in tire fatigue and sudden tire failure, leading to possible loss of vehicle control or an accident. Speed rating must be equal to or greater than what is specified by the vehicle manufacturer if the speed capability of the vehicle is to be maintained.
Certain vehicle performance parameters, including ride comfort and handling, may be affected by replacement tire sizes. In some cases, particularly for SUV's and light trucks, failure to follow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for tire replacement may adversely affect the handling of the vehicle leading to serious personal injury or death.
Always stand well clear of any tire mounting operation. This is especially important when 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.
A new valve must be installed on the rim each time a worn out passenger car or light truck tire is replaced.
Removing and replacing tires on wheels can be dangerous. Attempting to mount tires with improper tools or procedures may result in a tire explosion, causing serious personal injury or death. This is a job for your authorized Toyo Tire dealer or other qualified tire service location only.
NEVER put flammable substances in tire/rim assemblies at any time. Never put any flammable substance into a tire/rim assembly and attempt to ignite to seat the beads.
NOTE TO PROFESSIONAL TIRE INSTALLERS: Exceeding the maximum bead seating pressure — The tire service person must NEVER INFLATE BEYOND 40 POUNDS PRESSURE TO SEAT BEADS unless specified by the tire manufacturer! NEVER STAND, LEAN OR REACH OVER THE ASSEMBLY DURING INFLATION! There is a danger of serious injury or death if a tire of one bead diameter is installed on a rim or wheel of a different rim diameter. Always replace a tire with another tire of exactly the same bead diameter designation and suffix letters.
Driving your vehicle with an improper mix of tire sizes, constructions, and speed ratings can be dangerous. Your car's handling characteristics can be adversely affected. You could have an accident resulting in serious personal injury or death. Consult your vehicle owner's manual or authorized Toyo Tire dealer for proper tire replacement.
(including front-wheel-drive vehicles) without studded winter/snow tires on the rear axle can cause adverse vehicle handling characteristics. This may result in loss of vehicle control, which could cause serious injury or death. Follow all recommendations in the vehicle owner's manual regarding the use of winter tires.IMPORTANT! Matching Tires on Four-Wheel Drive and All Wheel Drive Vehicles: 4WD and AWD vehicles require special attention to ensure that all four tires are closely matched in diameter to avoid strain and possible damage to the vehicle's differentials and/or viscous couplings. Tire inflation pressure also affects the tire's rolling circumference and should be matched according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. Always check the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations prior to installing new tires.
It is ALWAYS preferred and recommended that ALL four (4) tires be replaced at the same time for continued optimal vehicle performance. However, for those cases where this is not feasible, below are some general guidelines to consider when replacing less than four tires for a light vehicle, whether it is one or two tires. If the vehicle manufacturer has alternate recommendations, always follow those recommendations.
Proper wheel alignment and balance are very important considerations for safety and maximum mileage from your tires. You need to check how your tires are wearing at least once a month.
Your vehicle may be out of alignment if your tires are wearing unevenly, such as the inside shoulder of the tire wearing faster than the rest of the tread. This condition not only shortens the life of your tires, but it adversely affects the handling characteristics of your vehicle, which could be dangerous. If irregular wear is indicated, have your alignment checked immediately. Tires that have been run underinflated will show more wear on the shoulders than in the center of the tread. Such underinflation may cause damage to the tire structure. If you see any unusual wear developing, have the tires inspected by your dealer.
CAUTION! Beware of sudden Tire Vibration. Serious personal injury or death may result from a tire failure. Many tire failures are preceded by vibration, bumps, bulges or irregular wear. If, while driving your vehicle, you experience any unusual vibration, pull, ride disturbance or noise and/or you suspect possible vehicle or tire damage, have your tires checked immediately by a qualified Toyo Tire dealer. Do not continue to drive on tires that have developed a sudden vibration! A vibration in your tires may indicate that there is something wrong, such as a puncture or separation, which could result in tire failure.It is not often that a properly maintained tire will "blow out" while you are driving. More commonly, if air is lost, it will be gradual. If you do experience a blowout or sudden tire failure, the following information should be helpful:
The purpose of rotating tires is to achieve a more uniform wear for all tires on a vehicle. Before rotating your tires, if tires show uneven treadwear, ask the service person to check and/or correct any vehicle wheel alignment or other mechanical problem before rotation. FULL-SIZE SPARE TIRES (NOT TEMPORARY SPARES) OF THE SAME SIZE AND CONSTRUCTION MUST BE USED IN A FIVE-TIRE ROTATION. Check if rotated tires require tire inflation adjustment, as front and rear position tire pressure may vary according to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
Tires should be thoroughly examined for any abnormalities on a lift by a tire dealer at least every 3,500 mile interval or less for ultra-high-performance (low profile) tires or 7,500 mile interval or less for standard passenger and light truck tires, during the required rotation periods.
These rotation patterns are acceptable. Please refer to your vehicle owner's manual for safety specifications regarding tire rotation advice.
IMPORTANT to remember the following:
Regardless of the speed and handling capabilities of your car and its tires, a loss of vehicle control can result from exceeding the maximum speed: (a) allowed by law or (b) warranted by traffic, weather, vehicle or road conditions.
ALWAYS Observe Speed Limits - Never operate your vehicle in excess of lawful speeds or the maximum speeds justified by driving conditions.
Many of today's tires are marked, as part of the service description, with letters to indicate their speed rating, based on laboratory tests that relate to performance on the road. Tires may be marked with one of these speed symbols: M, N, P, Q, R, S, T, U, H, V, W, or Y to identify the particular tire's speed rating. Additionally, the letter Z may appear in the size designation (see chart below)
When purchasing or replacing speed-rated tires, make sure to:
To avoid reducing the speed capability of the vehicle, replace a speed-rated tire only with another tire having at least the same speed rating or higher speed-rated tire. Remember, it's the "top speed" of the "slowest" tire on the car, which cannot be exceeded without risk of tire failure. The letter symbols and corresponding design speeds are:
** Although no upper limit speed is specified, the indicated tires nonetheless have limited rated speed capability. Call (800) 442-8696 for a referral for more technical information.
*** Any tire with a speed capability above 149 mph (240 km/h) can, at the tire manufacturer's option, include a "Z" in the size designation (i.e. 245/40ZR18). If a service description IS NOT included, the tire manufacturer must be consulted for the maximum speed capability (P245/40ZR18 speed capability is greater than 149 mph {240 km/h}). If a service description is included with the size description, the speed capability is limited by the speed symbol in the service description {i.e. P235/45ZR17 97W = maximum speed 168mph (270 km/h)}.
These speed ratings are based on laboratory tests under specific, controlled conditions. Real-life driving is rarely identical to any test conditions. Your tire's actual speed capability may be less than its rated speed, since it is affected by factors such as inflation pressure, load, prior alteration or damage, driving conditions, alignment, wear, vehicle condition, and the duration for which high speed is sustained.
Spinning a tire to remove a vehicle stuck in mud, snow or wet grass can be dangerous. This could cause serious personal injury or death to a bystander or passenger and extensive vehicle damage. A tire spinning at a speedometer reading above 35 miles per hour (55 km/h) can, in a matter of seconds, reach a speed capable of disintegrating a tire with explosive force. Under some conditions, a tire may be spinning at a speed twice that shown on the speedometer. Never spin a tire above a speedometer reading of 35 mph (55 km/h). Never allow anyone to stand near or directly behind the spinning tire. Do not spin if a drive wheel is off the ground.
The vehicle maximum load for your tire is critical and is marked on your tire's sidewall. Do not exceed these ratings. Follow the loading instructions of the manufacturer of your vehicle and this will ensure that your tires are not overloaded.
Tires that are loaded beyond their maximum allowable loads for the particular application will build up excessive heat that may result in sudden tire destruction. Reduction in tire inflation pressure will reduce the maximum load-carrying capacity of the tire. Vehicle load limits and special towing instructions are provided by the vehicle's manufacturer on the vehicle tire placard and in the owner's manual. When making alterations to your vehicle, or driving a vehicle with vehicle alterations, consult the vehicle manufacturer and the sidewall for the maximum load-carrying capacity of the tire. These alterations may cause different load requirements than were originally specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Do not exceed the gross axle weight ratings for any axle on your vehicle. Also, remember that the number of vehicle occupants and baggage carried on top or inside of the vehicle are additional loads.
Tires designed for use in severe snow conditions generally have tread patterns, structure and materials to give superior performance. These tires are marked with the "M&S" designation plus a mountain/snowflake symbol. Even the best all-season tires will not provide acceptable levels of traction if you drive too fast in snow or ice conditions and if you do not allow for up to 12 times more stopping distance on icy roads compared to dry road surfaces. As is the case with hydroplaning, your ability to safely maneuver your car in snow or ice conditions is considerably reduced if:The spare tire your car is equipped with may be of a different size and construction from the other tires on your vehicle. When using any temporary type spare tire, be sure to follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. FAILURE TO OBSERVE RECOMMENDED PRECAUTIONS COULD LEAD TO ERRATIC VEHICLE BEHAVIOR AND/OR TIRE DAMAGE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT.
Tires should be stored indoors in a cool, dry place where water cannot collect inside the tires. The 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. Improper storage can damage your tires in ways that may not be visible and can lead to serious personal injury or death.
A full size spare tire in your vehicle is intended for use as a spare when needed. The spare tire carrier is not intended for long-term storage. Please see the section under "Tire Rotation" for the proper procedures to include the same size and type road tire (for LT tires of the same size, type and load rating) in the rotation pattern. (Do not rotate a temporary spare tire)
Never exceed the speed limit as indicated by the speed symbol on the tire's sidewall. See chart and explanation of speed ratings in this manual on page 12.
Tires designated as "LT"
It is not recommended that any light truck be operated at speeds in excess of legal limits. However, if it is anticipated that sustained driving at speeds in excess of 65 miles per hour may be required, then the following adjustments or recommendations should be followed:
Tire installers should exercise extreme caution when replacing tires on light trucks. LT type tires (e.g. LT265/75R16) may not offer adequate load capacity when replacing P-metric type tires (e.g. P265/75R16), depending on the vehicle's load requirements and the tire's load/ply rating. LT type tires require much higher air pressures to carry equivalent loads of P-metric tires. If P-metric type tires are used to replace LT-metric tires, installers should verify the load requirement of the vehicle by checking the tire information placard. Always make sure that replacement tires offer equal or more load capacity (by inflation) compared to the originally installed tires. When a P-metric or metric tire is installed on a light truck (SUV, pickup, minivan), the load capacity (This load reduction factor is prescribed by Federal Motor of the tire is reduced by a factor of 1.10. Vehicle Safety Standards {FMVSS} and is based on the expectation that passenger type tires may. For example, experience more severe loading and usage conditions when applied to light trucks) 305/50R20 has a maximum load capacity of 3086 lbs. If this tire is fitted to a light truck, then the actual allowable load for the tire is 2805 lbs. (3086 lbs. Divided by 1.1). Consult manufacturer's load and inflation charts. Contact Toyo Technical Service with any tire replacement questions: 800-442-8696.
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading ("UTQG") standards are intended to assist you in making an informed choice in your purchase of passenger car tires by providing information indicating relative performance in the areas of tread wear, wet stopping traction, and temperature resistance. All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.
Remember, you are ultimately responsible for the tires installed on your vehicle.
If you have any further questions, contact your local Toyo Tire Dealer or Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. 1-800-442-8696