Tire Inflation

I just bought P175/65R14 tires. The old ones were to be kept at 30psi. The new ones have a maximum of 44psi. The tire store told me to keep them at 35 in the winter and 32 in the summer. My neighbor, an experienced firetruck mechanic, said to keep them at 41 or 42psi. I know the tire store should know, but 32-35 seems so far under the maximum of 44 that I’m really confused, and could sure use some help from someone knowledgeable about tires. Thanks a million.

Are these the size tires specified for your car? If yes, then the inflation psi should be on a sticker on the car somewhere (driver’s door jam, or fuel filler door) and will give the Toyota’s recommended tire pressures. It is also in the owner’s manual.

44 psi is the tire maximum but is not the proper pressure for your car. 42 psi is too high also. The tire store recommendations are in the ballpark, but your previous 30 psi is likely closest to Toyota recommendation. For a compact car like the Corolla, 30 to 32 seems about right.

I am gathering that even though the maximum psi is 44 on the new tires, I still go by the Toyota original instructions of 30 (or thereabouts). THANK YOU VERY MUCH. That’s a BIG load off my mind! Thanks again.

Look on the door tag, the spec is 32 I believe. 32 all year long.

Much obliged for your input. I believe mine says 30, which is sure closer to 32 than the 44 maximum that I was concerned about. I appreciate your help.

We get this question a lot. People always confuse the meaning of the maximum pressure notation on the tire. It has nothing at all to do with the correct pressure to use for its vehicle. That information is determined by the manufacturer and is printed on a label somewhere.

It is possible a fire truck needs much higher tire pressures than a passenger car, I wouldn’t know. But as others have said, use the recommended 30-32 psi for your Corolla.

I appreciate your help. I am definitely one who confused the meaning of the maximum pressure notation on the tire. It seemed that I’d be underinflating, but you and the other folks have helped me see things right, and I do thank you.

Good article here on why too much or little is bad>>>>> https://www.goodyeartires.com/kyt/maintaningATire/

Much obliged. I’ll read the article.

THANKS TO ALL WHO WROTE AND EDUCATED ME. I’M FINE NOW. HAVE A GREAT THANKSGIVING.

Sincerely,
Hoosier Guy