GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tire Repair Tire Inflation

The pressure recommended for any vehicle is carefully calculated to give a satisfactory ride, handling, tread life and load carrying capacity.

Tire pressure, with tires cold, (after the vehicle has sat for three hours or more, or has been driven less than one mile) should be checked monthly or before any extended trip and set to the specifications listed on the tire placard located on the rear face of the driver's door. Tire pressure will increase about 1 psi for every 10° F of temperature increase.

For tire inflation pressures.

Valve caps or extensions should be on the valves to keep dust and water out.

Higher than recommended pressure can cause the following conditions:

    • Hard ride
    • Reduced handling
    • Rapid tread wear at the center of the tire

Lower than recommended pressure can cause the following conditions:

    • Tire squeal on turns
    • Hard steering
    • Rapid and uneven wear on the edges of the tread
    • Tire rim bruises and rupture
    • Tire cord breakage
    • High tire temperatures
    • Reduced handling
    • High fuel consumption

Unequal pressure on same axle can cause the following conditions:

    • Uneven braking
    • Steering lead or pull
    • Reduced handling
    • Torque steer

Tire Repair Procedure

There are many different materials and techniques on the market to repair tires. Tire manufacturers have published detailed instructions on how and when to repair their tires. These instructions can be obtained from the tire manufacturer.

Due to the shallow 3/2 mm (1/8 in) tread depth on temporary spare tires, repairing temporary tires is not recommended.