Tire Pressure?

[julirog]

Well...bought a new car...

Had 38psi in tires as delivered
Door says 30psi
Max on tire is 44psi (1709#)

The car is about 3600# with about another 1000# carring capacity. Tires are BF Goodrich Traction T/A P235/60 R16 M&S

At what pressure would the tires be "underinflated"? How would I find the best pressure for highway and/or local driving?

Sure would appreciate any insights..

-Roger

[MgrMike]

Hi Roger-
That 30 psi on your door is the minimum air pressure you should have in your tires for your specific vehicle. Consider that your underinflated mark. It's hard to say what pressure you really should have in your tires. More air mean better gas mileage and less means better traction. If you're only driving around town, I would reccomend 35 psi. If you do a lot of driving(highway), I would reccomend between 35-38. If you are in a rural area, I would reccomend keeping it around 32 psi, where the tires can grip a little better. If you're looking for these tires to last their full life, I would say that 35 psi is where you want them.

[julirog]

Thanks....

You sound very knowledgable. Appreciate the answer.