Chevrolet Equinox Owners Manual
Wheels and TiresVehicle Care / Wheels and Tires
Tires
Every new GM vehicle has high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. See the warranty manual for information regarding the tire warranty and where to get service. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer.
WARNING
• Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
• Overloading the tires can cause overheating as a result of too much flexing.
There could be a blowout and a serious crash.
• Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting crash
could cause serious injury.
Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure.
Tire pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.
• Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured, or broken by a sudden
impact— such as when hitting a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure.
• Worn or old tires can cause a crash. If the tread is badly worn, replace them.
• Replace any tires that have been damaged by impacts with potholes, curbs, etc.
• Improperly repaired tires can cause a crash. Only the dealer or an authorized
tire service center should repair, replace, dismount, and mount the tires.
• Do not spin the tires in excess of 56 km/h (35 mph) on slippery surfaces such
as snow, mud, ice, etc. Excessive spinning may cause the tires to explode.
All-Season Tires
This vehicle may come with all-season tires. These tires are designed to provide good overall performance on most road surfaces and weather conditions. Original equipment tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. Original equipment all-season tires can be identified by the last two characters of this TPC code, which will be “MS.” Consider installing winter tires on the vehicle if frequent driving on snow or ice-covered roads is expected. All-season tires provide adequate performance for most winter driving conditions, but they may not offer the same level of traction or performance as winter tires on snow or ice-covered roads.
Winter Tires
This vehicle was not, originally, equipped with winter tires. Winter tires are designed for increased traction on snow and ice-covered roads. Consider installing winter tires on the vehicle if frequent driving on snow or ice-covered roads is expected.
With winter tires, there may be decreased dry road traction, increased road noise, and shorter tread life. After changing to winter tires, be alert for changes in vehicle handling and braking.
If using winter tires:
• Use tires of the same brand and tread type on all four wheel positions.
• Use only radial ply tires of the same size, load range, and speed rating as the
original equipment tires.
Winter tires with the same speed rating as the original equipment tires may not be available for H, V, W, Y, and ZR speed rated tires. If winter tires with a lower speed rating are chosen, never exceed the tire's maximum speed capability.
Summer Tires
This vehicle may come with high performance summer tires. These tires have a special tread and compound that are optimized for maximum dry and wet road performance. This special tread and compound will decrease performance in cold climates, and on ice and snow. We recommend installing winter tires on the vehicle if frequent driving in cold temperatures or on snow or ice covered roads is expected.
Tire Sidewall Labeling
Useful information about a tire is molded into its sidewall. The examples show a typical passenger vehicle tire and a compact spare tire sidewall.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire Example
(1) Tire Size: The tire size is a combination of letters and numbers used
to define a particular tire's width, height, aspect ratio, construction type, and
service description. See the “Tire Size” illustration later in this section.
(2) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment
tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification
code molded onto the sidewall.
GM's TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines.
(3) DOT (Department of Transportation): The Department of Transportation
(DOT) code indicates that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of
Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
DOT Tire Date of Manufacture: The last four digits of the TIN indicate the
tire manufactured date. The first two digits represent the week (01–52) and the
last two digits, the year. For example, the third week of the year 2010 would have
a four-digit DOT date of 0310.
(4) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following the
DOT (Department of Transportation) code are the Tire Identification Number (TIN).
The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was
manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side
may have the date of manufacture.
(5) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall
and under the tread.
(6) Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Tire manufacturers are required
to grade tires based on three performance factors: treadwear, traction, and temperature
resistance.
(7) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and
the maximum pressure needed to support that load.
Compact Spare Tire Example
(1) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall
and under the tread.
(2) Temporary Use Only: The compact spare tire or temporary use tire should
not be driven at speeds over 80 km/h (50 mph).
The compact spare tire is for emergency use when a regular road tire has lost
air and gone flat.
(3) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following the
DOT (Department of Transportation) code are the Tire Identification Number (TIN).
The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was
manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side
may have the date of manufacture.
(4) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and
the maximum pressure needed to support that load.
(5) Tire Inflation: The temporary use tire or compact spare tire should be
inflated to 420 kPa (60 psi).
(6) Tire Size: A combination of letters and numbers define a tire's width,
height, aspect ratio, construction type, and service description. The letter T as
the first character in the tire size means the tire is for temporary use only.
(7) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment
tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification
code molded onto the sidewall.
GM's TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines.
Tire Designations
Tire Size
The following is an example of a typical passenger vehicle tire size.
(1) Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: The United States version of a metric tire
sizing system. The letter P as the first character in the tire size means a passenger
vehicle tire engineered to standards set by the U.S. Tire and Rim Association.
(2) Tire Width: The three-digit number indicates the tire section width in
millimeters from sidewall to sidewall.
(3) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that indicates the tire height-to-width
measurements.
For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is 60, as shown in item 3 of the illustration,
it would mean that the tire's sidewall is 60 percent as high as it is wide.
(4) Construction Code: A letter code is used to indicate the type of ply
construction in the tire.
The letter R means radial ply construction; the letter D means diagonal or bias
ply construction; and the letter B means belted-bias ply construction.
(5) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches.
(6) Service Description: These characters represent the load index and speed
rating of the tire. The load index represents the load carrying capacity a tire
is certified to carry. The speed rating is the maximum speed a tire is certified
to carry a load.
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: The combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples
of optional accessories are automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes,
power windows, power seats, and air conditioning.
Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire's height to its width.
Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords between the plies and the tread. Cords may
be made from steel or other reinforcing materials.
Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold
the tire onto the rim.
Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies are laid at alternate
angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Cold Tire Pressure: The amount of air pressure in a tire, measured in kPa
(kilopascal) or psi (pounds per square inch) before a tire has built up heat from
driving.
Curb Weight: The weight of a motor vehicle with standard and optional equipment
including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, but without passengers
and cargo.
DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall of a tire signifying that the
tire is in compliance with the U.S.
Department of Transportation (DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. The DOT code
includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator which
can also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant, brand, and date of production.
GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front axle.
GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle.
Intended Outboard Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire, that must always
face outward when mounted on a vehicle.
Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure.
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty trucks and some
multipurpose passenger vehicles.
Load Index: An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279 that corresponds
to the load carrying capacity of a tire.
Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum air pressure to which a cold
tire can be inflated.
The maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall.
Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible
inflation pressure for that tire.
Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of curb weight, accessory weight,
vehicle capacity weight, and production options weight.
Normal Occupant Weight: The number of occupants a vehicle is designed
to seat multiplied by 68 kg (150 lb).
Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions.
Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that has a
particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire
that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering, or bears manufacturer, brand,
and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on the
other sidewall of the tire.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger cars and some light
duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles.
Recommended Inflation
Pressure: Vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire inflation pressure
as shown on the tire placard.
Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the
beads are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated.
Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead.
Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a tire indicating the
maximum speed at which a tire can operate.
Traction: The friction between the tire and the road surface.
The amount of grip provided.
Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road.
Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes called wear bars, that
show across the tread of a tire when only 1.6 mm (1/16 in) of tread remains.
UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards): A tire information system
that provides consumers with ratings for a tire's traction, temperature, and treadwear.
Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures.
The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire.
Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of designated seating positions multiplied
by 68 kg (150 lb) plus the rated cargo load.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an individual tire due to curb
weight, accessory weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight.
Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the
vehicle capacity weight and the original equipment tire size and recommended inflation
pressure.
Tire Pressure
Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively.
Notice: 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.
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).
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 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 to a receiver located in the vehicle.
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.) As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated.
Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly.
The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated.
This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists.
When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly.
Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada Standards
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation
This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
The TPMS is designed to warn the driver when a low tire pressure condition exists. TPMS sensors are mounted onto each tire and wheel assembly, excluding the spare tire and wheel assembly. The TPMS sensors monitor the air pressure in the tires and transmits the tire pressure readings to a receiver located in the vehicle.
When a low tire pressure condition is detected, the TPMS illuminates the low tire pressure warning light located on the instrument cluster.
If the warning light comes on, stop as soon as possible and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure shown on the tire loading information label.
A message to check the pressure in a specific tire displays in the Driver Information Center (DIC). The low tire pressure warning light and the DIC warning message come on at each ignition cycle until the tires are inflated to the correct inflation pressure. Using the DIC, tire pressure levels can be viewed.
The low tire pressure warning light may come on in cool weather when the vehicle is first started, and then turn off as the vehicle is driven. This could be an early indicator that the air pressure is getting low and needs to be inflated to the proper pressure.
A Tire and Loading Information label shows the size of the original equipment tires and the correct inflation pressure for the tires when they are cold.
The TPMS can warn about a low tire pressure condition but it does not replace normal tire maintenance.
Notice: Tire sealant materials are not all the same. A non-approved tire sealant could damage the TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor damage caused by using an incorrect tire sealant is not covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always use only the GM-approved tire sealant available through your dealer or included in the vehicle.
TPMS Malfunction Light and Message
The TPMS will not function properly if one or more of the TPMS sensors are missing or inoperable. When the system detects a malfunction, the low tire pressure warning light flashes for about one minute and then stays on for the remainder of the ignition cycle. A DIC warning message also displays. The low tire pressure warning light and DIC warning message come on at each ignition cycle until the problem is corrected. Some of the conditions that can cause these to come on are:
• One of the road tires has been replaced with the spare tire. The spare tire
does not have a TPMS sensor. The malfunction light and DIC message should go off
after the road tire is replaced and the sensor matching process is performed successfully.
See "TPMS Sensor Matching Process" later in this section.
• The TPMS sensor matching process was not done or not completed successfully after
rotating the tires. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off after
successfully completing the sensor matching process. See "TPMS Sensor Matching Process"
later in this section
. One or more TPMS sensors are missing or damaged. The DIC message and the TPMS
malfunction light should go off when the TPMS sensors are installed and the sensor
matching process is performed successfully. See your dealer for service.
• Replacement tires or wheels do not match the original equipment tires or wheels.
Tires and wheels other than those recommended could prevent the TPMS from functioning
properly.
• Operating electronic devices or being near facilities using radio wave frequencies
similar to the TPMS could cause the TPMS sensors to malfunction.
If the TPMS is not functioning properly, it cannot detect or signal a low tire condition. See your dealer for service if the TPMS malfunction light and DIC message comes on and stays on.
TPMS Sensor Matching Process
Each TPMS sensor has a unique identification code. The identification code needs to be matched to a new tire/wheel position after rotating the tires or replacing one or more of the TPMS sensors. The TPMS sensor matching process should also be performed after replacing a spare tire with a road tire containing the TPMS sensor. The malfunction light and the DIC message should go off at the next ignition cycle. The sensors are matched to the tire/ wheel positions, using a TPMS relearn tool, in the following order: driver side front tire, passenger side front tire, passenger side rear tire, and driver side rear. See your dealer for service or to purchase a relearn tool.
There are two minutes to match the first tire/wheel position, and five minutes overall to match all four tire/wheel positions. If it takes longer, the matching process stops and must be restarted.
The TPMS sensor matching process is:
1. Set the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off.
3. Use the MENU button to select the Vehicle Information Menu in the Driver Information
Center (DIC). Use the arrow keys to scroll to the Tire Pressure screen.
4. Press the SET/CLR button to begin the sensor matching process.
A message requesting acceptance of the process should display.
5. Press the SET/CLR button again to confirm the selection.
The horn sounds twice to signal the receiver is in relearn mode and the TIRE
LEARNING ACTIVE message displays on the DIC screen.
6. Start with the driver side front tire.
7. Place the relearn tool against the tire sidewall, near the valve stem. Then press
the button to activate the TPMS sensor.
A horn chirp confirms that the sensor identification code has been matched to
this tire and wheel position.
8. Proceed to the passenger side front tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 7.
9. Proceed to the passenger side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 7.
10. Proceed to the driver side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 7. The
horn sounds two times to indicate the sensor identification code has been matched
to the driver side rear tire, and the TPMS sensor matching process is no longer
active. The TIRE LEARNING ACTIVE message on the DIC display screen goes off.
11. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
12. Set all four tires to the recommended air pressure level as indicated on the
Tire and Loading Information label.
Tire Inspection
We recommend that the tires, including the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, be inspected for signs of wear or damage at least once a month.
Replace the tire if:
• The indicators at three or more places around the tire can be seen.
• There is cord or fabric showing through the tire's rubber.
• The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut, or snagged deep enough to show cord or
fabric.
• The tire has a bump, bulge, or split.
• The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that cannot be repaired well because
of the size or location of the damage.
Tire Rotation
Tires should be rotated every 12 000 km (7,500 mi).
Tires are rotated to achieve a uniform wear for all tires. The first rotation is the most important.
Anytime unusual wear is noticed, rotate the tires as soon as possible, check for proper tire inflation pressure, and check for damaged tires or wheels. If the unusual wear continues after the rotation, check the wheel alignment.
Use this rotation pattern when rotating the tires.
Do not include the compact spare tire in the tire rotation.
Adjust the front and rear tires to the recommended inflation pressure on the Tire and Loading Information label after the tires have been rotated.
Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor System.
Check that all wheel nuts are properly tightened.
WARNING
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, a cloth or a paper towel can be used; however, use a scraper or wire brush later to remove all rust or dirt.
Lightly coat the center of the wheel hub with wheel bearing grease after a wheel change or tire rotation to prevent corrosion or rust build-up. Do not get grease on the flat wheel mounting surface or on the wheel nuts or bolts.
When It Is Time for New Tires
Factors such as maintenance, temperatures, driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions affect the wear rate of the tires.
Treadwear indicators are one way to tell when it is time for new tires.
Treadwear indicators appear when the tires have only 1.6mm (1/16 in) or less of tread remaining.
The rubber in tires ages over time.
This also applies to the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, even if it is never used. Multiple factors including temperatures, loading conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance affect how fast aging takes place. GM recommends that tires, including the spare if equipped, be replaced after six years, regardless of tread wear. The tire manufacturer date is the last four digits of the DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) which is molded into one side of the tire sidewall. The first two digits represent the week (01–52) and the last two digits, the year. For example, the third week of the year 2010 would have a four-digit DOT date of 0310.
Vehicle Storage
Tires age when stored normally mounted on a parked vehicle. Park a vehicle that will be stored for at least a month in a cool, dry, clean area away from direct sunlight to slow aging. This area should be free of grease, gasoline, or other substances that can deteriorate rubber.
Parking for an extended period can cause flat spots on the tires that may result in vibrations while driving. When storing a vehicle for at least a month, remove the tires or raise the vehicle to reduce the weight from the tires.
Buying New Tires
GM has developed and matched specific tires for the vehicle. The original equipment tires installed were designed to meet General Motors Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) system rating. When replacement tires are needed, GM strongly recommends buying tires with the same TPC Spec rating.
GM's exclusive TPC Spec system considers over a dozen critical specifications that impact the overall performance of the vehicle, including brake system performance, ride and handling, traction control, and tire pressure monitoring performance. GM's TPC Spec number is molded onto the tire's sidewall near the tire size. If the tires have an all-season tread design, the TPC Spec number will be followed by MS for mud and snow.
GM recommends replacing worn tires in complete sets of four.
Uniform tread depth on all tires will help to maintain the performance of the vehicle.
Braking and handling performance may be adversely affected if all the tires are not replaced at the same time.
If proper rotation and maintenance have been done, all four tires should wear out at about the same time. However, if it is necessary to replace only one axle set of worn tires, place the new tires on the rear axle.
Winter tires with the same speed rating as the original equipment tires may not be available for H, V, W, Y and ZR speed rated tires. Never exceed the winter tire's maximum speed capability when using winter tires with a lower speed rating.
WARNING
Tires could explode during improper service. Attempting to mount or dismount a tire could cause injury or death.
Only your dealer or authorized tire service center should mount or dismount the tires.
WARNING
Mixing tires of different sizes, brands, or types may cause loss of control of the vehicle, resulting in a crash or other vehicle damage. Use the correct size, brand, and type of tires on all wheels.
WARNING
Using bias-ply tires on the vehicle may cause the wheel rim flanges to develop cracks after many miles of driving.
A tire and/or wheel could fail suddenly and cause a crash.
Use only radial-ply tires with the wheels on the vehicle.
If the vehicle tires must be replaced with a tire that does not have a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating, and construction (radial) as the original tires.
Vehicles that have a tire pressure monitoring system could give an inaccurate low-pressure warning if non-TPC Spec rated tires are installed
The Tire and Loading Information label indicates the original equipment tires on the vehicle.
Different Size Tires and Wheels
If wheels or tires are installed that are a different size than the original equipment wheels and tires, vehicle performance, including its braking, ride and handling characteristics, stability, and resistance to rollover may be affected. If the vehicle has electronic systems such as antilock brakes, rollover airbags, traction control, electronic stability control, or All-Wheel Drive, the performance of these systems can also be affected.
WARNING
If different sized wheels are used, there may not be an acceptable level of performance and safety if tires not recommended for those wheels are selected. This increases the chance of a crash and serious injury. Only use GM specific wheel and tire systems developed for the vehicle, and have them properly installed by a GM certified technician.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which grades tires by treadwear, traction, and temperature performance. This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States. The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) system does not apply to deep tread, winter tires, compact spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires.
While the tires available on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these grades, they must also conform to federal safety requirements and additional General Motors Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.
All Passenger Car Tires Must Conform to Federal Safety Requirements In Addition To These Grades.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1½) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction – AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
Temperature – A, B, C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
The tires and wheels were aligned and balanced at the factory to provide the longest tire life and best overall performance. Adjustments to wheel alignment and tire balancing will not be necessary on a regular basis. However, check the alignment if there is unusual tire wear or if the vehicle is pulling to one side or the other. If the vehicle vibrates when driving on a smooth road, the tires and wheels might need to be rebalanced. See your dealer for proper diagnosis.
Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts should be replaced.
If the wheel leaks air, replace it.
Some aluminum wheels can be repaired. See your dealer if any of these conditions exist.
Your dealer will know the kind of wheel that is needed.
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset, and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces.
Replace wheels, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) sensors with new GM original equipment parts.
WARNING
Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel nuts can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of the vehicle. Tires can lose air, and cause loss of control, causing a crash. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for replacement.
Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance, and tire or tire chain clearance to the body and chassis.
Used Replacement Wheels
WARNING
Replacing a wheel with a used one is dangerous. How it has been used or how far it has been driven may be unknown. It could fail suddenly and cause a crash.
When replacing wheels, use a new GM original equipment wheel.
Tire Chains
WARNING
Do not use tire chains. There is not enough clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension or other vehicle parts.
The area damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and you or others may be injured in a crash.
A Type S low-profile cable can be used only if the cable manufacturer recommends it for use on the vehicle, the tire size combination, and road conditions.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions. To help avoid damage to the vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the cable if it is contacting the vehicle and do not spin the vehicle's tires.
Install the cables on the front tires only. Cables should not be installed on the spare tire or on the optional 19-inch tire.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow out while driving, especially if the tires are maintained properly. If air goes out of a tire, it is much more likely to leak out slowly. But if there ever is a blowout, here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire creates a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible.
A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction as used in a skid. Stop pressing the accelerator pedal and steer to straighten the vehicle. It may be very bumpy and noisy. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible.
WARNING
Driving on a flat tire will cause permanent damage to the tire.
Re-inflating a tire after it has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat may cause a blowout and a serious crash.
Never attempt to re-inflate a tire that has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat.
Have your dealer or an authorized tire service center repair or replace the flat tire as soon as possible.
WARNING
Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, it is designed only for changing a flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you or others could be badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, only use it for changing a flat tire.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place, well off the road, if possible. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
WARNING
Changing a tire can be dangerous. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over or fall causing injury or death. Find a level place to change the tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:
1. Set the parking brake firmly.
2. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in 1 (First)
or R (Reverse).
3. Turn off the engine and do not restart while the vehicle is raised.
4. Do not allow passengers to remain in the vehicle.
5. Place wheel blocks on both sides of the tire at the opposite corner of the tire
being changed.
When the vehicle has a flat tire (2), use the following example as a guide to assist in the placement of the wheel blocks (1).
1. Wheel Block
2. Flat Tire
The following information explains how to repair or change a tire.
Tire Changing
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
Coin/Pierce Jack with One-Piece Wrench
1. Extension
2. Wheel Wrench
3. Jack
Hex-Head Jack with Three-Piece Wrench
1. Wheel Wrench
2. Jack
To access the spare tire and tools:
1. Open the liftgate.
2. Lift the load floor up.
3. If you have a coin/pierce jack and one-piece wrench, remove the extension (1),
wheel wrench (2) and jack (3).
If you have a hex-head jack and three-piece wrench, remove the wheel wrench (1) and jack (2).
Place the tools next to the tire being changed.
4. Turn the retainer nut counterclockwise and remove the spare tire.
Place either end of the extension into a retainer hole to loosen the retainer
nut if unable to by hand.
5. Place the spare tire next to the tire being changed.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
1. Do a safety check before proceeding.
2. For vehicles with a wheel cover or center cap, pull the cover or center cap away
from the wheel to remove it. Store the wheel cover in the cargo area until you have
the flat tire repaired or replaced.
3. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to loosen all the wheel nuts, but do not remove them yet.
Notice: Make sure that the jack lift head is in the correct position or you may damage your vehicle.
The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
4. Position the jack lift head at the jack location nearest the flat tire.
The location is indicated by a mark on the bottom edge of the front and rear
door plastic molding. The jack must not be used in any other position.
5. Place the jack notch under the frame rail seam.
WARNING
Getting under a vehicle when it is lifted on a jack is dangerous.
If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.
WARNING
Raising the vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.
WARNING
Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, it is designed only for changing a flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you or others could be badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, only use it for changing a flat tire.
6. Place the jack under the vehicle.
7. If you have a coin/pierce jack, attach the jack handle extension to the jack
by sliding the hook through the end of the jack and insert the other end of the
jack handle into the wrench.
If you have a hex-head jack, attach the jack lift-assist tool by placing the hex of the jack lift-assist tool over the hex head of the jack.
Hex Head Jack and Wrench
Coin/Pierce Jack and Wrench
8. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the road tire to clear the ground.
9. Remove all of the wheel nuts.
10. Remove the flat tire.
WARNING
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, a cloth or a paper towel can be used; however, use a scraper or wire brush later to remove all rust or dirt.
11. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces, and spare
wheel.
12. Place the compact spare tire on the wheel-mounting surface.
WARNING
Never use oil or grease on bolts or nuts because the nuts might come loose. The vehicle's wheel could fall off, causing a crash.
13. Reinstall the wheel nuts.
Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.
14. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise.
WARNING
Wheel nuts that are improperly or incorrectly tightened can cause the wheels to become loose or come off. The wheel nuts should be tightened with a torque wrench to the proper torque specification after replacing. Follow the torque specification supplied by the aftermarket manufacturer when using accessory locking wheel nuts. See
Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2 for the wheel nut torque specification.
15. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence, as shown.
16. Lower the jack all the way and remove the jack from under the vehicle.
17. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly with the wheel wrench.
When reinstalling the wheel cover or center cap on the full-size tire, tighten all five plastic caps hand snug with the aid of the wheel wrench and tighten them with the wheel wrench an additional one-quarter of a turn.
Notice: Wheel covers will not fit on the vehicle's compact spare.
If you try to put a wheel cover on the compact spare, the cover or the spare could be damaged.
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools
WARNING
Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.
1. Cable
2. Liftgate Hinges
3. Center of the Wheel
4. Door Striker
To store the flat tire:
1. Remove the cable package. The cable is stored in a plastic bag under the compact
spare tire.
2. Remove the small center cap by tapping the back of the cap with the extension
of the shaft, if the vehicle has aluminum wheels.
3. Put the flat tire in the rear storage area with the valve stem pointing toward
the rear of the vehicle.
4. Pull the cable (1) through the door striker (4) then the center of the wheel
(3).
5. Hook the cable onto the outside portion of the liftgate hinges (2).
6. Hook the other end of the cable onto the outside portion of the liftgate hinge
on the other side of the vehicle.
7. Pull on the cable to make sure it is secure.
8. Make sure the metal tube is centered at the striker. Push the tube toward
the front of the vehicle.
9. Close the liftgate and make sure it is latched properly.
The compact spare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can.
Compact Spare Tire
WARNING
Driving with more than one compact spare tire at a time could result in loss of braking and handling. This could lead to a crash and you or others could be injured. Use only one compact spare tire at a time.
If this vehicle has a compact spare tire, it was fully inflated when new; however, it can lose air over time.
Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 420 kPa (60 psi).
Stop as soon as possible and check that the spare tire is correctly inflated after being installed on the vehicle. The compact spare tire is designed for temporary use only.
The vehicle will perform differently with the spare tire installed and it is recommended that the vehicle speed be limited to 80 km/h (50 mph). To conserve the tread of the spare tire, have the standard tire repaired or replaced as soon as convenient and return the spare tire to the storage area.
Notice: When the compact spare is installed, do not take the vehicle through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails which can damage the tire, wheel, and other parts of the vehicle.
Do not use the compact spare on other vehicles.
Do not mix the compact spare tire or wheel with other wheels or tires.
They will not fit. Keep the spare tire and its wheel together.
Notice: Tire chains will not fit the compact spare. Using them can damage the vehicle and the chains. Do not use tire chains on the compact spare.
