What tire pressure should I run after installing new wheels and tires?

Setting the correct tire pressure after installing new wheels and tires is one of the most important steps to ensure your new setup performs safely and wears evenly over time. Here is everything you need to know about finding the right tire pressure for your new setup.

Always follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendation

The most important thing to know about tire pressure is that the recommended pressure is determined by your vehicle manufacturer, not by the tire itself. Here is what to know:

• The recommended tire pressure for your vehicle can be found on the tire placard located on the driver side door jamb or in your owner's manual
• This recommended pressure is specific to your vehicle and is based on the weight of the vehicle, the suspension setup, and the intended use
• Always inflate your tires to the pressure listed on your door jamb placard, not the maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall
• The maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall is the highest pressure the tire can safely handle, not the recommended operating pressure for your vehicle

Does tire size affect the recommended pressure?

If you installed a different tire size than your factory tires, the recommended pressure may be slightly different. Here is what to know:

• If you stayed within a similar tire size range, your vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure is still a good starting point
• If you significantly changed your tire size, load range, or tire type, it may be worth consulting with a local tire shop or our sales team to confirm the appropriate pressure for your new setup
• Higher load range tires like load range E are designed to operate at higher inflation pressures than lower load range tires. Make sure you are inflating to the pressure appropriate for your specific tire and vehicle combination
• If you are running a significantly larger or heavier tire than your factory setup, adjusting your tire pressure slightly may help optimize ride quality, tread wear, and performance

What happens if my tire pressure is too high?

Over inflated tires can cause a number of issues. Here is what to watch out for:

• The center of the tread wears faster than the edges, leading to premature and uneven tire wear
• A harsher, firmer ride as the tire has less ability to absorb road imperfections
• Reduced traction as the contact patch between the tire and the road becomes smaller
• Increased risk of damage from road hazards like potholes as the over inflated tire has less ability to flex and absorb impact

What happens if my tire pressure is too low?

Under inflated tires are just as problematic as over inflated tires. Here is what to watch out for:

• The edges of the tread wear faster than the center, leading to premature and uneven tire wear
• Increased rolling resistance which can reduce fuel economy and cause the tire to run hotter than normal
• Reduced handling and steering response as the tire flexes more than intended
• Increased risk of a blowout, particularly at highway speeds or under heavy loads, as an under inflated tire generates excessive heat

Check tire pressure regularly

Tire pressure naturally changes over time and with temperature fluctuations. Here is what to know:

• Tire pressure drops approximately 1 PSI for every 10 degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature, so it is especially important to check your pressure during seasonal changes
• Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before any long trips
• Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold, meaning the vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours or has been driven less than one mile at low speed. Driving heats up the tires and increases the pressure reading, which can give an inaccurate result
• Do not bleed air from a hot tire to reach the recommended pressure, as the pressure will drop further once the tires cool down

What about airing down for off-road use?

If you plan to take your truck off road, airing down your tires can significantly improve traction on loose or uneven terrain. Here is what to know:

• Airing down reduces tire pressure to allow the tire to flex more and create a larger contact patch with the terrain, improving grip on dirt, rocks, sand, and mud
• The appropriate air down pressure depends on your tire size, load range, and the terrain you are driving on. Many off-road enthusiasts air down to between 15 and 20 PSI for trail use, though this can vary
• Never air down on the street or highway, as driving on under inflated tires at speed is dangerous and can cause a blowout
• Always reinflate your tires to the recommended pressure before returning to the highway after off-road use
• If you run real beadlock wheels, airing down to very low pressures is safer as the beadlock ring physically clamps the tire bead to the wheel and prevents the tire from coming off the rim

Does TPMS affect my tire pressure?

If your vehicle has TPMS, your dashboard warning light will activate if your tire pressure drops significantly below the recommended level. Here is what to know:

• TPMS is designed to alert you when a tire is significantly under inflated, typically when pressure drops 25% or more below the recommended level
• Do not rely solely on your TPMS warning light to monitor tire pressure. Regularly checking your tire pressure manually is still the best practice
• If your TPMS light comes on after installing new tires, first check your tire pressure and adjust as needed before assuming there is a sensor issue

Still have questions about tire pressure?

Contact us with your vehicle details and new tire setup and our team will be happy to help you determine the right pressure for your specific combination!