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Tires/tire pressure

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Expert: Barry Smith - 6/19/2005


Question
I have just purchased a used Dodge Caravan (2001). Could you tell me the correct tire pressure and if the pressure should be the same in all four tires?
Tire size is P215/70R15 all season times
Thanks...BM  

Answer
There is a placard on every vehicle sold in the US that has the proper tire size and the proper inflation pressure.  Usually the placard is on a door post or in the glove box.

Personally I like to use 3 to 5 psi above the placard.  I get better fuel economy, better tire wear, better wet traction, better snow traction, better steering response, better tire durability, and only give up a bit of ride harshness.

“They” say you should check your tire pressures once a month.  Don't trust the guys at the shop to do it.  These guys are paid by the hour and this is one of the easiest things to shortcut.  Besides, there are a lot of mechanics you don't know where to look for the proper inflation.  No, it is not on the sidewall.

I think you'll find the pressure listed on the placard is 35 psi.

Hope this helps.

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Barry Smith

Expertise

I have over 30 years experience in the design, manufacturing, and testing of tires. I have served as the technical advisor to the "800" number. I have authored or co-authored many publications - usually without credit. I can answer almost any technical question, but please don`t ask me to compare brands. I probably have prejudices because of my work experience.

Experience

Member SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) Member Tire Society (Tire Technical Organization) SCCA Regional Competiton License holder Authored many training manuals on tires, their care and use.

Organizations
SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) Tire Society

Publications
You may want to visit my web site: http://www.barrystiretech.com/index.html

Education/Credentials
I am a graduate of the University of Dayton, Dayton, OH - BME, 1971 I attended graduate school at the University of Akron - but did not complete my PhD - something I regret.

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