Tire Inflation Pressures

Updated 08/15/2017

Federal regulations make it mandatory for tire manufacturers to place permanent data on the side of all tires showing maximum load and inflation. The inflation pressure shown is the “maximum” allowable under any circumstance. The maximum pressure is the uppermost limit and it is necessary only when heavy loads are carried in order to achieve the full safe load carrying limit of the tire, or when sustained periods of high speed driving are expected.

The pressure listed on the tire sidewall is the maximum pressure to be used for the tire. It is not intended as a guide for normal inflation pressure. If the vehicle is equipped with a tire that is the same “size” as the OE tire, has the same max pressure rating and has the same load index always check the vehicle manufacturer’s information on inflation pressures before inflating any tire. This is typically located on the vehicle tire placard.

The user may need to make adjustments to air pressure if the tire size or service description differs from what the vehicle was originally equipped with. For suggested air pressure in the Mickey Thompson Tires used on the vehicle, refer to the information in the Tech Bulletin section or contact the Mickey Thompson Tires tech dept. at (330) 928-9092 and have your OE tire size ( located on the vehicle placard), OE cold inflation pressure (located on the vehicle placard), and new tire size available for the tech staff.

When high speed driving and /or driving with maximum load as prescribed by the vehicle manufacturer), it is most important to follow the auto manufacturer’s recommendation for increasing tire pressure. However, do not ‘bleed’ or reduce pressure when the tires are hot from driving. Over-inflation may produce a harsh ride, which may make tires susceptible to impact damage and may cause faster than normal tread wear and may cause traction and cornering capabilities to decrease. Under-inflation may cause excessive heat build-up, which could cause tire failure.