Checking Tire Pressure - Toyota 1997 Corolla Owner's Manual

Checking tire pressure

Keep your tire pressures at the proper
level.
The recommended cold tire pressures,
tire size and the vehicle capacity weight
are also given in Part 8. They are also on
the tire pressure label inside the glovebox.
You should check the tire pressures every
two weeks, or at least once a month. And
do not forget the spare!
Incorrect tire pressure can reduce tire
life and make your vehicle less safe to
drive.
Low tire pressure results in excessive
wear, poor handling, reduced fuel econo-
my, and the possibility of blowouts from
overheated tires. Also, low tire pressure
can cause poor sealing of the tread bead.
If the tire pressure is excessively low,
there is the possibility of wheel deforma-
tion and/or tire separation.
High tire pressure produces a harsh ride,
handling problems, excessive wear at the
center of the tire tread, and a greater pos-
sibility of tire damage from road hazards.
If a tire frequently needs refilling, have it
checked by your Toyota dealer.
The following instructions for check-
ing tire pressure should be observed:
S The pressure should be checked only
when the tires are cold. If your vehicle
has been parked for at least 3 hours
and has not been driven for more than
1.5 km or 1 mile since, you will get an
accurate cold tire pressure reading.
S Always use a tire pressure gauge. The
appearance of a tire can be mislead-
ing. Besides, tire pressure that are
even just a few pounds off can de-
grade handling and ride.
S Take special care when adding air to
the compact spare tire. The smaller
tire size can gain pressure very quick-
ly. Add compressed air in small quanti-
ties and check the pressure often until
it reaches the specified pressure.
S Do not bleed or reduce tire pressure
after driving. It is normal for the tire
pressure to be higher after driving.
S Never exceed the vehicle capacity
weight. The passenger and luggage
weight should be located so that the
vehicle is balanced.
S Be sure to reinstall the tire inflation
valve caps. Without the valve caps,
dirt or moisture could get into the valve
core and cause air leakage. If the caps
have been lost, have new ones put on
as soon as possible.
173