Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

WHEELS AND TIRES DIAGNOSIS

Wheels and Tires Road Test

Verify the customer concern by performing a road test on a smooth road. If any vibrations are apparent, see Suspension NVH Diagnosis.
To maximize tire performance, see Wheel and Tire Inspection / Adjustment to inspect for signs of improper inflation and uneven wear, which may indicate a need for balancing, rotation, or front suspension alignment.
Correct tire pressure and driving techniques have an important influence on tire life. Heavy cornering, excessively rapid acceleration and unnecessary sharp braking increases tire wear.
Replacement tires must follow the recommended:

- Tire sizes
- Speed rating
- Load range
- Radial construction type
Use of any other tire size or type can seriously affect:

- Ride
- Handling
- Speedometer/odometer calibration
- Vehicle ground clearance
- Tire clearance between the body and chassis
- Wheel bearing life
- Brake cooling
Wheels need to be replaced when:

- Bent
- Cracked
- Dented
- Heavily rusted
- Leaking
- They have elongated wheel hub bolt holes
- They have excessive lateral or radial runout
Wheel and tire assemblies are attached by five noncentering lug nuts.
It is mandatory to use only the tire sizes recommended on the tire chart attached to the vehicle. Larger or smaller tires can damage the vehicle, affect durability, and require changing the speedometer calibration. Make sure wheel size and offsets match those recommended for the tire in use.

1. Inspect for signs of uneven wear that may indicate a need for balancing, rotation, front suspension alignment, damaged tie rod, or steering components.

2. Check tires for:

- Cuts
- Stone bruises
- Abrasions
- Blisters
- Embedded objects

3. Inspect chassis and underbody. Remove any excessive accumulation of mud, dirt or road deposits from the chassis and underbody.

4. Check for aftermarket changes to the steering, suspension, wheel and tire components (such as competition, heavy duty, etc.) The specifications shown in this information do not apply to vehicles equipped with aftermarket equipment.

5. Tread wear indicators are molded into the bottom of the tread grooves. Replace the tire when the indicator bands become visible.