Chevrolet Sonic Owner's Manual: Tire Pressure
Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively.
Caution
Neither tire underinflation nor overinflation is good. Underinflated tires, or tires that do not have enough air, can result in:
- . Tire overloading and overheating which could lead to a blowout.
- . Premature or irregular wear.
- . Poor handling.
- . Reduced fuel economy.
Overinflated tires, or tires that have too much air, can result in:
- . Unusual wear.
- . Poor handling.
- . Rough ride.
- . Needless damage from road hazards.
The Tire and Loading Information label on the vehicle indicates the original equipment tires and the correct cold tire inflation pressures. The recommended pressure is the minimum air pressure needed to support the vehicle's maximum load carrying capacity. See Vehicle Load Limits.
How the vehicle is loaded affects vehicle handling and ride comfort. Never load the vehicle with more weight than it was designed to carry.
When to Check
Check the tires once a month or more. Do not forget the compact spare, if the vehicle has one. The cold compact spare tire pressure should be at 420 kPa (60 psi). See Compact Spare Tire.
How to Check
Use a good quality pocket-type gauge to check tire pressure. Proper tire inflation cannot be determined by looking at the tire. Check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold, meaning the vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours or no more than 1.6 km (1 mi).
Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem. Press the tire gauge firmly onto the valve to get a pressure measurement. If the cold tire inflation pressure matches the recommended pressure on the Tire and Loading Information label, no further adjustment is necessary. If the inflation pressure is low, add air until the recommended pressure is reached. If the inflation pressure is high, press on the metal stem in the center of the tire valve to release air.
Recheck the tire pressure with the tire gauge.
Return the valve caps on the valve stems to prevent leaks and keep out dirt and moisture.
Tire Terminology and Definitions
Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square
inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in kPa (kilopascal) or psi (pounds per
square inch).
Accessory Weight: ...
Tire Pressure Monitor System
The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses radio and sensor technology to check
tire pressure levels. The TPMS sensors monitor the air pressure in your tires and
transmit tire pressure readings ...
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Off-Road Recovery
The vehicle's right wheels can drop off the edge of a road onto the shoulder
while driving. Follow these tips:
1. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer the
vehicle so that it straddles the edge of the pavement.
2. Turn the steering wheel about one-eight ...
Smartphone Link (Overview)
Before Using Smartphone Link
If equipped, the vehicle can connect to Pandora®, Stitcher SmartRadio™, or other
available applications through the infotainment system. The applications must be
downloaded to the device first, then the device can be connected to the infotainment
system.
Pan ...
Heating and Air Conditioning System Description and Operation
Engine Coolant
Engine coolant is the key element of the heating system. The engine thermostat
controls the normal engine operating coolant temperature. Coolant pumped out
of the engine enters the heater core through the inlet heater hose. The air
flowing through the HVAC module abs ...
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