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. See Tire Pressure 3 96 and Vehicle Load Limits 3 70.
Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor System. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation 3 98.
Check that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” in your owner's manual, and “Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire” under Tire Changing 3 106.
Factors such as maintenance, temperatures, driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions affect tire wear. Treadwear indicators show when tires have 1.6 mm (1/16 in) or less tread remaining. See Tire Inspection 3 100 and Tire Rotation 3 100.
The rubber in tires ages over time, including the spare tire. Multiple factors such as temperatures, loading, and inflation maintenance affect aging. GM recommends replacing tires, including the spare if equipped, after six years regardless of tread wear. Use the tire manufacture date (last four digits of DOT Tire Identification Number) to determine age. First two digits = week, last two digits = year. Example: 0320 = 3rd week of 2020.
Tires age when stored on a parked vehicle. Store vehicles for at least a month in a cool, dry, clean area away from direct sunlight. Avoid grease, gasoline, or other substances. Extended parking may cause flat spots; remove tires or raise the vehicle to reduce weight.
GM tires are matched to the vehicle and follow the TPC Spec system. Replacement tires should have the same TPC Spec rating. Worn tires should ideally be replaced in sets of four for uniform performance. If only replacing one axle, place new tires on the rear axle. See Tire Rotation 3 100.
The UTQG system grades tires by treadwear, traction, and temperature. Applies only to vehicles sold in the United States. Grades are molded on sidewalls of most passenger car tires. Does not apply to deep tread, winter, compact spare, or 10–12 inch rim tires.
Quality grades can be found between tread shoulder and maximum section width. Example: Treadwear 200, Traction AA, Temperature A. All passenger car tires must conform to federal safety requirements.
Comparative rating based on wear rate under controlled conditions on government test course. Example: Grade 150 wears 1.5 times faster than grade 100. Actual performance varies due to driving habits, service, road, and climate.
Grades from highest to lowest: AA, A, B, C. Represents stopping ability on wet pavement. Does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction.
Grades: A (highest), B, C. Indicates tire resistance to heat generation and dissipation. Proper inflation and loading are required. Excessive speed, underinflation, or loading can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
Slow leaks are more common than blowouts. See Tires 3 92.
For blowouts:
