ccorley

Guys,

What is the correct tire pressure to run under normal load in a stock 2002 C32with stock 17's, running a V rated stock size tire. My fuel door lists like 5 different sets of pressure ratings, can't really make heads or tales out of it. Also, the owners manual doesn't seem to list PSI ratings either. The pressures listed are as follows:

29 - 32
35 - 42
32 - 35
36 - 39
41 - 44

thanks
~ccorley

Fifth Ring

There are a lot of factors that determine optimum tire pressure, and it's always a guessing game. The goal is to achieve a "hot" pressure that gives a comfortable ride and even treadwear. I would start with 32 to 34 lbs cold pressure and go up from there (or it may be easier to start at 36-38 cold, and drop it if the ride is to harsh - easier to let air out than in!).

If you like sharper handling, keep it at 36+. I like extra pressure, and I've never had a problem with tread wearing out in the middle (which is a symptom of excess pressure).

You can even start adjusting front versus back to improve turn-in. At lower speeds/temps (most of your driving), you add a couple PSI up front, and even drop some PSI in the back to reduce understeer. At much higher speeds (e.g. driving school) I found the opposite to be true. Front tires heat up so much that you end up with too much pressure and less contact patch -- so I ran 31 PSI up front for added grip.

More important than anything is that you have good pressure and the same pressure at each axle. For day-to-day driving, the difference between 32 and 36 pounds is not that noticeable.

dorikin_86

if you're just driving this on the street. Look inside your driver's door jamb. It has manufacturer's recommended air pressures.