Toyota Echo 2001, Owner'S Manual, Page: 210 / 237

2001MY ECHO (U) L/O0008
197
2001 ECHO (OM52440U)
Low tire pressure results in excessive
wear, poor handling, reduced fuel econo-
my, and the possibility of blowouts from
overheated tires. Also, low tire pressure
can cause poor sealing of the tire bead.
If the tire pressure is excessively low,
there is the possibility of wheel deforma-
tion and/or tire separation.
High tire pressure produces a harsh ride,
handling problems,excessive wear at the
center of the tire tread, and a greater
possibility of tire damage from road haz-
ards.
If a tire frequently needs refilling, have it
checked by your Toyota dealer.
The following instructions for checking
tire pressure should be observed:
$
The pressure should be checked only
when the tires are cold.
If your ve-
hicle has been parked for at least 3
hours and has not been driven for
more than 1.5 km or 1 mile since, you
will get an accurate cold tire pressure
reading.
$
Always use a tire pressure gauge.
The appearance of a tire can be mis-
leading. Besides, tire pressures that
are even just a few pounds off can
degrade ride and handling.
$
Take special care when adding air to
the compact spare tire.
The smaller
tire size can gain pressure very quick-
ly. Add compressed air in small quanti-
ties and check the pressure often until
it reaches the specified pressure.
$
Do not bleed or reduce tire pressure
after driving.
It is normal for the tire
pressure to be higher after driving.
$
Never exceed the vehicle capacity
weight.
The passenger and luggage
weight should be located so that the
vehicle is balanced.
$
Be sure to reinstall the tire inflation
valve caps.
Without the valve caps,
dirt or moisture could get into the valve
core and cause air leakage. If the caps
have been lost, have new ones put on
as soon as possible.
Checking and replacing tires
Tread wear indicator
CHECKING YOUR TIRES
Check the tires tread for the tread wear
indicators. If the indicators show, re-
place the tires.
The tires on your Toyota have built–in
tread wear indicators to help you know
when the tires need replacement. When
the tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06
in.) or less, the indicators will appear. If
you can see the indicators in two or more
adjacent grooves, the tire should be re-
placed. The lower the tread, the higher
the risk of skidding.
The effectiveness of snow tires is lost
if the tread wears down below 4 mm
(0.16 in.).