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Transport Canada - Road Safety
 
  Riding On Air
  TP 2823 E 
 
Table of contents
Critical safety and environmental information
When was the last time you checked your tires?
Inflating your tires
Inspecting tires for damage and wear
Rotating your tires
Replacing tires
Winter tires
How to read a tire sidewall
Recommended tire pressure
Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS)
Seasonal tire storage
The impact of tires on the environment and our health
Tire safety checklist
Tire safety and Transport Canada
Contacting Transport Canada
Vehicles, fuel efficiency and Natural Resources Canada

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Recommended tire pressure

The maximum tire pressure marked on the tire sidewall refers to the pressure required to carry the maximum load of the tire, and is generally not the same as the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. To find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle’s tires, refer to the information label, which is usually located on the edge of the driver’s door, or the door post or other conspicuous location. If you can’t find the information label, check your owner’s manual.

Example of a tire's maximum tire pressure.

 Maximum tire pressure

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Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS)

Some new vehicles are equipped with these systems, which indicate when a tire becomes underinflated.

Some tire pressure monitoring systems provide a warning only when a tire is significantly underinflated. The tire may then be close to failure. When a monitoring system warns that pressure is low, measure your tire pressure as soon as possible.

Make sure you understand the tire pressure monitoring system installed in your vehicle. Check your owner’s manual.

Tire pressure monitoring systems do not replace the maintenance procedures recommended here.

Don’t forget: you should continue to measure your tire pressure on a monthly basis.
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Seasonal tire storage

Tires should be stored upright in a clean indoor location, free from exposure to sunlight or strong artificial light, heat, ozone (electrical motors) and hydrocarbons. If tires are stored on their rims, the tire pressure should be reduced to approximately 103 kPa (15 psi) to avoid possible cracking and deformation.


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