Owner`s manual

14
WINTER DRIVING
Tires which meet the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) definition
of snow tires are marked M/S, M+S, or M&S. On such tires, this
designation is molded into the sidewall. Tires without this notation are not
recommended for winter driving.
While All-Season tires are designed to provide reliable performance in
some winter conditions, the use of four (4) winter tires is
recommended for optimal performance. Tires designated for
use in severe winter conditions are marked on at least one
sidewall with the letter “M” and “S” plus a pictograph of a
mountain with a snowflake on it.
TIRE ROTATION AND REPLACEMENT
To obtain maximum tread life, it is necessary to rotate your tires. Michelin
recommends rotating your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (10,000 to
12,000 km), or as specified by your vehicle manufacturer, whichever
rotation period is less. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for any
recommendations by your vehicle manufacturer. Monthly inspection for
tire wear is recommended. Your tires should be rotated at the first sign of
irregular wear, even if it occurs before 6,000 miles (10,000 km). This is true
for all vehicles. When rotating tires with a directional tread pattern, observe
the arrows molded on the sidewall which show the direction the tire
should turn. Care must be taken to maintain the proper turning direction.
Some Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) may not recognize
that a tire has been moved to a different position on your vehicle.
Make certain that your TPMS system is reset, if necessary, so as to
correctly identify the location of each tire on your vehicle. Refer
to your vehicle owner’s manual or your vehicle dealer. Determine
whether rotated tires require tire inflation adjustment as front and rear
position tire pressure may vary according to the vehicle manufacturer’s
specification due to the actual load on that wheel position. Some vehicles
may have tires of different size mounted on the front versus the rear
axles, and these different tires have rotation restrictions. Always check the
vehicle owner’s manual for the proper rotation recommendations.
Full-size Spare
Full-size spare tires (not temporary spares) of the same size and construction
should be used in a five (5) tire rotation. Always have spare tires inspected
by a tire professional before installation. Tires are composed of various
types of material and rubber compounds having performance properties
essential to the proper functioning of the tire. These component properties
evolve over time. Always check the inflation pressure of the full-size spare
immediately before incorporating it into rotation. Follow the vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended pattern for rotation, or if not available, see
a qualified tire technician.
Replacement of Two (2) Tires
It is recommended that all four (4) tires are replaced at the same time.
However, when only two tires are replaced, the new ones should be put
on the rear. The new tires, with deeper tread, may provide better grip and
water evacuation in wet driving conditions.
CUSTOMIZATION OF TIRES, WHEELS, OR SUSPENSION
ON SUVS AND LIGHT TRUCKS
Due to their size, weight and higher center of gravity, vehicles such as
SUVs and light trucks do not have the same handling characteristics
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