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 ...
Other materials:
Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
The tire sealant and compressor kit is located in the rear storage area.
1. Lift the trim cover.
2. Remove the tire sealant canister (1) and the compressor (2).
To store the tire sealant canister and compressor:
1. Attach the sealant/air hose to the sealant canister inlet valve.
2. Return the ...
SIR Disabling and Enabling
SIR component location affects how a vehicle should be serviced. There are parts
of the SIR system installed in various locations around a vehicle. To find the location
of the SIR components refer to Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System Description
and Operation.
There are several reason ...
Shift Fork Cleaning and Inspection (Gen 1)
Warning: Wear safety glasses to avoid injury when using compressed
air or any cleaning solvent. Bodily injury may occur if fumes are inhaled
or if skin is exposed to chemicals.
Clean the following components with a suitable solvent.
Air dry all the parts.
3rd and ...
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