Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to
a tire indicating the maximum speed at which a
tire can operate.
Traction
: The friction between the tire and the
road surface. The amount of grip provided.
Tread
: The portion of a tire that comes into
contact with the road.
Treadwear Indicators
: Narrow bands, sometimes
called wear bars, that show across the tread of a
tire when only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread remains.
See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 6-61.
UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards)
: A tire information system that
provides consumers with ratings for a tire’s
traction, temperature, and treadwear. Ratings
are determined by tire manufacturers using
government testing procedures. The ratings are
molded into the sidewall of the tire. See Uniform
Tire Quality Grading on page 6-64.
Vehicle Capacity Weight
: The number of
designated seating positions multiplied by
150 lbs (68 kg) plus the rated cargo load.
See Loading the Vehicle on page 5-21.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire
: Load on an
individual tire due to curb weight, accessory
weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight.
Vehicle Placard
: A label permanently attached to
a vehicle showing the vehicle’s capacity weight
and the original equipment tire size and
recommended inflation pressure. See “Tire and
Loading Information Label” under Loading
the Vehicle on page 5-21.
Run-Flat Tires
Your vehicle, when new, had run-flat tires. There is no
spare tire, no tire changing equipment, and no place to
store a tire in the vehicle. Run-flat tires perform so well
without any air that a Tire Pressure Monitor System
(TPMS) is used to alert you if a tire has lost pressure.
{ CAUTION:
When the low tire warning light is displayed on the
instrument panel cluster, your vehicle’s handling
capabilities will be reduced during severe
maneuvers. If you drive too fast, you could lose
control of your vehicle. You or others could be
injured. Do not drive over 55 mph (90 km/h) when
the low tire warning light is displayed. Drive
cautiously and check your tire pressures as soon
as you can.
6-52