Get Tires, Wheels and Loading Guide for Ford Focus 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2010)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

INFORMATION ABOUT UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY GRADING

New vehicles are fitted with tires

that have a rating on them called

Tire Quality Grades. The Quality

grades can be found where

applicable on the tire sidewall

between tread shoulder and

maximum section width. For

example:

• Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

These Tire Quality Grades are determined by standards that the United

States Department of Transportation has set.

Tire Quality Grades apply to new pneumatic tires for use on passenger

cars. They do not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow tires,

space-saver or temporary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim

diameters of 10 to 12 inches or limited production tires as defined in

Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 575.104(c)(2).

U.S. Department of Transportation-Tire quality grades: The U.S.

Department of Transportation requires Ford Motor Company to give you

the following information about tire grades exactly as the government

has written it.

Treadwear

The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of

the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified

government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one

and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire

graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual

conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the

norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and

differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA A B C

The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B, and C. The

grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured

under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of

asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction

performance.

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The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on

straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include

acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature A B C

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing the

tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat

when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory

test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire

to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to

sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance

which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle

Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of

performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by

law.

The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that

is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed,

underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in

combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

TIRES

Tires are designed to give many thousands of miles of service, but they

must be maintained in order to get the maximum benefit from them.

Glossary of tire terminology

• Tire label: A label showing the OE (Original Equipment) tire sizes,

recommended inflation pressure and the maximum weight the vehicle

can carry.

• Tire Identification Number (TIN): A number on the sidewall of

each tire providing information about the tire brand and

manufacturing plant, tire size and date of manufacture. Also referred

to as DOT code.

• Inflation pressure: A measure of the amount of air in a tire.

• Standard load: A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a

maximum load at 35 psi [37 psi (2.5 bar) for Metric tires]. Increasing

the inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increase the tire’s

load carrying capability.

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• Extra load: A class of P-metric or Metric tires designed to carry a

heavier maximum load at 41 psi [43 psi (2.9 bar) for Metric tires].

Increasing the inflation pressure beyond this pressure will not increase

the tire’s load carrying capability.

• kPa: Kilopascal, a metric unit of air pressure.

• PSI: Pounds per square inch, a standard unit of air pressure.

• Cold inflation pressure: The tire pressure when the vehicle has

been stationary and out of direct sunlight for an hour or more and

prior to the vehicle being driven for 1 mile (1.6 km).

• Recommended inflation pressure: The cold inflation pressure found

on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label located on

the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door.

• B-pillar: The structural member at the side of the vehicle behind the

front door.

• Bead area of the tire: Area of the tire next to the rim.

• Sidewall of the tire: Area between the bead area and the tread.

• Tread area of the tire: Area of the perimeter of the tire that

contacts the road when mounted on the vehicle.

• Rim: The metal support (wheel) for a tire or a tire and tube assembly

upon which the tire beads are seated.

INFLATING YOUR TIRES

Safe operation of your vehicle requires that your tires are properly

inflated. Every day before you drive, check your tires. If one looks lower

than the others, use a tire gauge to check pressure of all tires and adjust

if required. Remember that a tire can lose up to half of its air pressure

without appearing flat.

At least once a month and before long trips, inspect each tire and check

the tire pressure with a tire gauge (including spare, if equipped). Inflate

all tires to the inflation pressure recommended by Ford Motor Company.

Use a tire gauge to check the tire inflation pressure, including the spare

(if equipped), at least monthly and before long trips. You are strongly

urged to buy a reliable tire pressure gauge, as automatic service station

gauges may be inaccurate. Ford Motor Company recommends the use of

a digital or dial-type tire pressure gauge rather than a stick-type tire

pressure gauge.

Use the recommended cold inflation pressure for optimum tire

performance and wear. Under-inflation or over-inflation may cause

uneven treadwear patterns.

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Under-inflation is the most common cause of tire failures and

may result in severe tire cracking, tread separation or ЉblowoutЉ,

with unexpected loss of vehicle control and increased risk of injury.

Under-inflation increases sidewall flexing and rolling resistance,

resulting in heat buildup and internal damage to the tire. It also may

result in unnecessary tire stress, irregular wear, loss of vehicle control

and accidents. A tire can lose up to half of its air pressure and not

appear to be flat!

Always inflate your tires to the Ford recommended inflation pressure

even if it is less than the maximum inflation pressure information found

on the tire. The Ford recommended tire inflation pressure is found on

the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label which is located

on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. Failure to follow the tire

pressure recommendations can cause uneven treadwear patterns and

adversely affect the way your vehicle handles.

Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure is the tire manufacturer’s

maximum permissible pressure and/or the pressure at which the

maximum load can be carried by the tire. This pressure is normally

higher than the manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation pressure

which can be found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire

Label which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door.

The cold inflation pressure should never be set lower than the

recommended pressure on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or

Tire Label.

When weather temperature changes occur, tire inflation pressures also

change. A 10° F (6° C) temperature drop can cause a corresponding

drop of 1 psi (7 kPa) in inflation pressure. Check your tire pressures

frequently and adjust them to the proper pressure which can be found

on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or Tire Label.

To check the pressure in your tire(s):

1. Make sure the tires are cool, meaning they are not hot from driving

even a mile.

If you are checking tire pressure when the tire is hot, (i.e. driven more

than 1 mile [1.6 km]), never “bleed” or reduce air pressure. The tires are

hot from driving and it is normal for pressures to increase above

recommended cold pressures. A hot tire at or below recommended cold

inflation pressure could be significantly under-inflated.

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Note: If you have to drive a distance to get air for your tire(s), check

and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air pressure

when you get to the pump. It is normal for tires to heat up and the air

pressure inside to go up as you drive.

2. Remove the cap from the valve on one tire, then firmly press the tire

gauge onto the valve and measure the pressure with the tire gauge.

3. Add enough air to reach the recommended air pressure.

Note: If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in

the center of the valve. Then recheck the pressure with your tire gauge.

4. Replace the valve cap.

5. Repeat this procedure for each tire, including the spare.

Note: Some spare tires operate at a higher inflation pressure than the

other tires. For T-type/mini-spare tires (see T-Type/Mini-Spare Tire

Information section for description): Store and maintain at 60 psi

(4.15 bar). For Full Size and Dissimilar spare tires (see Dissimilar

Spare Tire/Wheel Information section for description): Store and

maintain at the higher of the front and rear inflation pressure as shown

on the Safety Compliance Certification Label or the Tire Label.

6. Visually inspect the tires to make sure there are no nails or other

objects embedded that could poke a hole in the tire and cause an air

leak.

7. Check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts or bulges.

TIRE CARE

Inspecting your tires

Periodically inspect the tire treads for uneven or excessive wear and

remove objects such as stones, nails or glass that may be wedged in the

tread grooves. Check for holes or cuts that may permit air leakage from

the tire and make necessary repairs. Also inspect the tire sidewalls for

cracking, cuts, bruises and other signs of damage or excessive wear. If

internal damage to the tire is suspected, have the tire demounted and

inspected in case it needs to be repaired or replaced. For your safety,

tires that are damaged or show signs of excessive wear should not be

used because they are more likely to blow out or fail.

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Improper or inadequate vehicle maintenance can cause tires to wear

abnormally. Inspect all your tires, including the spare, frequently, and

replace them if one or more of the following conditions exist:

Tire wear

When the tread is worn down to

1/16th of an inch (2 mm), tires must

be replaced to help prevent your

vehicle from skidding and

hydroplaning. Built-in treadwear

indicators, or “wear bars”, which

look like narrow strips of smooth

rubber across the tread will appear

on the tire when the tread is worn

down to 1/16th of an inch (2 mm).

When the tire tread wears down to

the same height as these “wear bars”, the tire is worn out and must be

replaced.

Damage

Periodically inspect the tire treads and sidewalls for damage (such as

bulges in the tread or sidewalls, cracks in the tread groove and

separation in the tread or sidewall). If damage is observed or suspected

have the tire inspected by a tire professional. Tires can be damaged

during off-road use, so inspection after off-road use is also

recommended.

Age

Tires degrade over time depending on many factors such as

weather, storage conditions, and conditions of use (load, speed,

inflation pressure, etc.) the tires experience throughout their lives.

In general, tires should be replaced after six years regardless of tread

wear. However, heat caused by hot climates or frequent high loading

conditions can accelerate the aging process and may require tires to be

replaced more frequently.

You should replace your spare tire when you replace the road tires or

after six years due to aging even if it has not been used.

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U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN)

Both U.S. and Canada Federal regulations require tire manufacturers to

place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This

information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of

the tire and also provides a U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number for

safety standard certification and in case of a recall.

This begins with the letters “DOT” and indicates that the tire meets all

federal standards. The next two numbers or letters are the plant code

designating where it was manufactured, the next two are the tire size

code and the last four numbers represent the week and year the tire was

built. For example, the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After

2000 the numbers go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th

week of 2001. The numbers in between are identification codes used for

traceability. This information is used to contact customers if a tire defect

requires a recall.

Tire Replacement Requirements

Your vehicle is equipped with tires designed to provide a safe ride and

handling capability.

Only use replacement tires and wheels that are the same size,

load index, speed rating and type (such as P-metric versus

LT-metric or all-season versus all-terrain) as those originally provided

by Ford. The recommended tire and wheel size may be found on either

the Safety Compliance Certification Label or the Tire Label which is

located on the B-Pillar or edge of the driver’s door. If this information

is not found on these labels then you should consult your Ford Dealer.

Use of any tire or wheel not recommended by Ford can affect the

safety and performance of your vehicle, which could result in an

increased risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover, personal injury

and death. Additionally the use of non-recommended tires and wheels

could cause steering, suspension, axle or transfer case/power transfer

unit failure. If you have questions regarding tire replacement, see an

authorized dealer.

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When mounting replacement tires and wheels, you should not

exceed the maximum pressure indicated on the sidewall of the

tire to set the beads without additional precautions listed below. If the

beads do not seat at the maximum pressure indicated, re-lubricate and

try again.

When inflating the tire for mounting pressures up to 20 psi greater

than the maximum pressure on the tire sidewall, the following

precautions must be taken to protect the person mounting the tire:

1. Make sure that you have the correct tire and wheel size.

2. Lubricate the tire bead and wheel bead seat area again.

3. Stand at a minimum of 12 feet away from the tire wheel assembly.

4. Use both eye and ear protection.

For a mounting pressure more than 20 psi greater than the maximum

pressure, a Ford Dealer or other tire service professional should do the

mounting.

Always inflate steel carcass tires with a remote air fill with the person

inflating standing at a minimum of 12 ft. away from the tire wheel

assembly.

Important: Remember to replace the wheel valve stems when the road

tires are replaced on your vehicle.

It is recommended that the two front tires or two rear tires generally be

replaced as a pair.

Safety practices

Driving habits have a great deal to do with your tire mileage and safety.

• Observe posted speed limits

• Avoid fast starts, stops and turns

• Avoid potholes and objects on the road

• Do not run over curbs or hit the tire against a curb when parking

If your vehicle is stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., do not rapidly

spin the tires; spinning the tires can tear the tire and cause an

explosion. A tire can explode in as little as three to five seconds.

Do not spin the wheels at over 35 mph (56 km/h). The tires may

fail and injure a passenger or bystander.

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Highway hazards

No matter how carefully you drive there’s always the possibility that you

may eventually have a flat tire on the highway. Drive slowly to the

closest safe area out of traffic. This may further damage the flat tire, but

your safety is more important.

If you feel a sudden vibration or ride disturbance while driving, or you

suspect your tire or vehicle has been damaged, immediately reduce your

speed. Drive with caution until you can safely pull off the road. Stop and

inspect the tires for damage. If a tire is under-inflated or damaged,

deflate it, remove wheel and replace it with your spare tire and wheel. If

you cannot detect a cause, have the vehicle towed to the nearest repair

facility or tire dealer to have the vehicle inspected.

Tire and wheel alignment

A bad jolt from hitting a curb or pothole can cause the front end of your

vehicle to become misaligned or cause damage to your tires. If your

vehicle seems to pull to one side when you’re driving, the wheels may be

out of alignment. Have an authorized dealer check the wheel alignment

periodically.

Wheel misalignment in the front or the rear can cause uneven and rapid

treadwear of your tires and should be corrected by an authorized dealer.

Front wheel drive (FWD) vehicles and those with an independent rear

suspension (if equipped) may require alignment of all four wheels.

The tires should also be balanced periodically. An unbalanced tire and

wheel assembly may result in irregular tire wear.

Tire rotation

Rotating your tires at the recommended interval (as indicated in the

scheduled maintenance information that comes with your vehicle) will

help your tires wear more evenly, providing better tire performance and

longer tire life. Unless otherwise specified, rotate the tires approximately

every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).

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• Front Wheel Drive (FWD)

vehicles (front tires at top of

diagram)

Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating the tires.

Note: If your tires show uneven wear ask an authorized dealer to check

for and correct any wheel misalignment, tire imbalance or mechanical

problem involved before tire rotation.

Note: Your vehicle may be equipped with a dissimilar spare tire/wheel. A

dissimilar spare tire/wheel is defined as a spare tire and/or wheel that is

different in brand, size or appearance from the road tires and wheels. If

you have a dissimilar spare tire/wheel it is intended for temporary use

only and should not be used in a tire rotation.

Note: After having your tires rotated, inflation pressure must be checked

and adjusted to the vehicle requirements.

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INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE TIRE SIDEWALL

Both U.S. and Canada Federal regulations require tire manufacturers to

place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This

information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of

the tire and also provides a U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number for

safety standard certification and in case of a recall.

Information on “P” type tires

P215/65R15 95H is an example of a

tire size, load index and speed

rating. The definitions of these

items are listed below. (Note that

the tire size, load index and speed

rating for your vehicle may be

different from this example.)

1. P: Indicates a tire, designated by

the Tire and Rim Association

(T&RA), that may be used for

service on cars, SUVs, minivans and

light trucks.

Note: If your tire size does not

begin with a letter this may mean it

is designated by either ETRTO

(European Tire and Rim Technical Organization) or JATMA (Japan Tire

Manufacturing Association).

2. 215: Indicates the nominal width of the tire in millimeters from

sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general, the larger the number, the

wider the tire.

3. 65: Indicates the aspect ratio which gives the tire’s ratio of height to

width.

4. R: Indicates a “radial” type tire.

5. 15: Indicates the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your

wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel

diameter.

6. 95: Indicates the tire’s load index. It is an index that relates to how

much weight a tire can carry. You may find this information in your

Owner’s Guide. If not, contact a local tire dealer.

Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not

required by federal law.

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7. H: Indicates the tire’s speed rating. The speed rating denotes the

speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of

time under a standard condition of load and inflation pressure. The tires

on your vehicle may operate at different conditions for load and inflation

pressure. These speed ratings may need to be adjusted for the difference

in conditions. The ratings range from 81 mph (130 km/h) to 186 mph

(299 km/h). These ratings are listed in the following chart.

Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not

required by federal law.

Letter rating

Speed rating - mph (km/h)

81 mph (130 km/h)

87 mph (140 km/h)

99 mph (159 km/h)

106 mph (171 km/h)

112 mph (180 km/h)

118 mph (190 km/h)

124 mph (200 km/h)

130 mph (210 km/h)

149 mph (240 km/h)

168 mph (270 km/h)

186 mph (299 km/h)

M

N

Q

R

S

T

U

H

V

W

Y

Note: For tires with a maximum speed capability over 149 mph

(240 km/h), tire manufacturers sometimes use the letters ZR. For

those with a maximum speed capability over 186 mph (299 km/h), tire

manufacturers always use the letters ZR.

8. U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN): This begins with the

letters “DOT” and indicates that the tire meets all federal standards. The

next two numbers or letters are the plant code designating where it was

manufactured, the next two are the tire size code and the last four

numbers represent the week and year the tire was built. For example,

the numbers 317 mean the 31st week of 1997. After 2000 the numbers

go to four digits. For example, 2501 means the 25th week of 2001. The

numbers in between are identification codes used for traceability. This

information is used to contact customers if a tire defect requires a recall.

9. M+S or M/S: Mud and Snow, or

AT: All Terrain, or

AS: All Season.

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10. Tire Ply Composition and Material Used: Indicates the number of

plies or the number of layers of rubber-coated fabric in the tire tread and

sidewall. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the ply materials in the

tire and the sidewall, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others.

11. Maximum Load: Indicates the maximum load in kilograms and

pounds that can be carried by the tire. Refer to the Safety Compliance

Certification Label, which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the

driver’s door, for the correct tire pressure for your vehicle.

12. Treadwear, Traction and Temperature Grades

• Treadwear: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the

wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a

specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150

would wear one and one-half (1¹⁄2) times as well on the government

course as a tire graded 100.

• Traction: The traction grades, from highest to lowest are AA, A, B,

and C. The grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement

as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test

surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor

traction performance.

• Temperature: The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C,

representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its

ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a

specified indoor laboratory test wheel.

13. Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure: Indicates the tire

manufacturers’ maximum permissible pressure and/or the pressure at

which the maximum load can be carried by the tire. This pressure is

normally higher than the manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation

pressure which can be found on the Safety Compliance Certification

Label or Tire Label which is located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the

driver’s door. The cold inflation pressure should never be set lower than

the recommended pressure on the vehicle label.

The tire suppliers may have additional markings, notes or warnings such

as standard load, radial tubeless, etc.

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Additional information contained on the tire sidewall for “LT” type

tires

“LT” type tires have some additional

information beyond those of “P”

type tires; these differences are

described below:

1. LT: Indicates a tire, designated by

the Tire and Rim Association

(T&RA), that is intended for service

on light trucks.

2. Load Range/Load Inflation

Limits: Indicates the tire’s

load-carrying capabilities and its

inflation limits.

3. Maximum Load Dual lb. (kg)

at psi (kPa) cold: Indicates the

maximum load and tire pressure

when the tire is used as a dual; defined as four tires on the rear axle (a

total of six or more tires on the vehicle).

4. Maximum Load Single lb. (kg) at psi (kPa) cold: Indicates the

maximum load and tire pressure when the tire is used as a single;

defined as two tires (total) on the rear axle.

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Information on “T” type tires

“T” type tires have some additional

information beyond those of “P”

type tires; these differences are

described below:

T145/80D16 is an example of a tire

size.

Note: The temporary tire size for

your vehicle may be different from

this example.

1. T: Indicates a type of tire,

designated by the Tire and Rim

Association (T&RA), that is

intended for temporary service on

cars, SUVs, minivans and light

trucks.

2. 145: Indicates the nominal width

of the tire in millimeters from

sidewall edge to sidewall edge. In general, the larger the number, the

wider the tire.

3. 80: Indicates the aspect ratio which gives the tire’s ratio of height to

width. Numbers of 70 or lower indicate a short sidewall.

4. D: Indicates a “diagonal” type tire.

R: Indicates a “radial” type tire.

5. 16: Indicates the wheel or rim diameter in inches. If you change your

wheel size, you will have to purchase new tires to match the new wheel

diameter.

Location of the tire label

You will find a Tire Label containing tire inflation pressure by tire size

and other important information located on the B-Pillar or the edge of

the driver’s door.

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SNOW TIRES AND CHAINS

Snow tires must be the same size and grade as the tires you

currently have on your vehicle.

The original equipment tires on your vehicle have an all-weather tread

design to provide traction, handling, and braking performance in

year-round driving. You may install snow tires for improved traction

when driving in areas with sustained periods of snow or icy driving

conditions.

If you choose to install snow tires on your vehicle, they must be the

same size, construction, and load range as the original tires listed on the

tire placard, and they must be installed on all four wheels. Mixing tires of

different size or construction on your vehicle can adversely affect your

vehicle’s handling and braking, and may lead to loss of vehicle control.

Do not use snow chains or cables on this vehicle as they may

cause damage to your vehicle which may lead to loss of vehicle

control.

VEHICLE LOADING – WITH AND WITHOUT A TRAILER

This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or

trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating

capability, with or without a trailer. Properly loading your vehicle will

provide maximum return of vehicle design performance. Before loading

your vehicle, familiarize yourself with the following terms for determining

your vehicle’s weight ratings, with or without a trailer, from the vehicle’s

Safety Compliance Certification Label:

Base Curb Weight – is the weight of the vehicle including a full tank of

fuel and all standard equipment. It does not include passengers, cargo, or

optional equipment.

Vehicle Curb Weight – is the weight of your new vehicle when you

picked it up from your authorized dealer plus any aftermarket

equipment.

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Cargo Weight – includes all weight added to the Base Curb Weight,

including cargo and optional equipment. When towing, trailer tongue load

weight is also part of cargo weight.

GAW (Gross Axle Weight) – is the total weight placed on each axle

(front and rear) – including vehicle curb weight and all payload.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable

weight that can be carried by a single axle (front or rear). These

numbers are shown on the Safety Compliance Certification Label

located on the B-Pillar or the edge of the driver’s door. The total

load on each axle must never exceed its GAWR.

Note: For trailer towing information refer to Trailer towing found in

this chapter or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide provided by your

authorized dealer.

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) – is the Vehicle Curb Weight + cargo +

passengers.

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GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight

Rating) – is the maximum

allowable weight of the fully loaded

vehicle (including all options,

equipment, passengers and cargo).

The GVWR is shown on the

Safety Compliance Certification

Label located on the B-Pillar or

the edge of the driver’s door.

The GVW must never exceed the

GVWR.

Exceeding the Safety Compliance Certification Label vehicle

weight rating limits could result in substandard vehicle handling

or performance, engine, transmission and/or structural damage, serious

damage to the vehicle, loss of control and personal injury.

GCW (Gross Combined Weight) – is the weight of the loaded vehicle

(GVW) plus the weight of the fully loaded trailer.

GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) – is the maximum allowable

weight of the vehicle and the loaded trailer – including all cargo and

passengers – that the vehicle can handle without risking damage.

(Important: The towing vehicles’ braking system is rated for operation at

GVWR, not at GCWR. Separate functional brakes should be used for safe

control of towed vehicles and for trailers where the GCW of the towing

vehicle plus the trailer exceed the GVWR of the towing vehicle. The

GCW must never exceed the GCWR.

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Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight – is the highest possible weight of a

fully loaded trailer the vehicle can tow. It assumes a vehicle with only

mandatory options, no cargo (internal or external), a tongue load of

10–15% (conventional trailer), and driver only (150 lb. [68 kg]). Consult

your authorized dealer (or the RV and Trailer Towing Guide

provided by your authorized dealer) for more detailed

information.

Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the Safety

Compliance Certification Label.

Do not use replacement tires with lower load carrying capacities

than the original tires because they may lower the vehicle’s

GVWR and GAWR limitations. Replacement tires with a higher limit

than the original tires do not increase the GVWR and GAWR

limitations.

Exceeding any vehicle weight rating limitation could result in

serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.

Steps for determining the correct load limit:

1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo

should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.

2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will

be riding in your vehicle.

3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from

XXX kg or XXX lbs.

4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage

load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1,400 lbs. and

there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of

available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400–750 (5 x 150)

= 650 lb.). In metric units (635–340 (5 x 68) = 295 kg.)

5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on

the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and

luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be

transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this

reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.

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The following gives you a few examples on how to calculate the available

amount of cargo and luggage load capacity:

• Another example for your vehicle with 1400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and

luggage capacity. You decide to go golfing. Is there enough load

capacity to carry you, 4 of your friends and all the golf bags? You and

four friends average 220 lb. (99 kg) each and the golf bags weigh

approximately 30 lb. (13.5 kg) each. The calculation would be: 1400 -

(5 x 220) - (5 x 30) = 1400 - 1100 - 150 = 150 lb. Yes, you have

enough load capacity in your vehicle to transport four friends and

your golf bags. In metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg -

(5 x 99 kg) - (5 x 13.5 kg) = 635 - 495 - 67.5 = 72.5 kg.

• A final example for your vehicle with 1400 lb. (635 kg) of cargo and

luggage capacity. You and one of your friends decide to pick up

cement from the local home improvement store to finish that patio

you have been planning for the past 2 years. Measuring the inside of

the vehicle with the rear seat folded down, you have room for

12-100 lb. (45 kg) bags of cement. Do you have enough load capacity

to transport the cement to your home? If you and your friend each

weigh 220 lb. (99 kg), the calculation would be: 1400 - (2 x 220) -

(12 x 100) = 1400 - 440 - 1200 = - 240 lb. No, you do not have

enough cargo capacity to carry that much weight. In metric units, the

calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) - (12 x 45 kg) = 635 - 198 -

540 = -103 kg. You will need to reduce the load weight by at least

240 lb. (104 kg). If you remove 3-100 lb. (45 kg) cement bags, then

the load calculation would be:

1400 - (2 x 220) - (9 x 100) = 1400 - 440 - 900 = 60 lb. Now you have

the load capacity to transport the cement and your friend home. In

metric units, the calculation would be: 635 kg - (2 x 99 kg) -

(9 x 45 kg) = 635 - 198 - 405 = 32 kg.

The above calculations also assume that the loads are positioned in your

vehicle in a manner that does not overload the Front or the Rear Gross

Axle Weight Rating specified for your vehicle on the Safety Compliance

Certification Label found on the edge of the driver’s door.

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TRAILER TOWING

Refer to the following chart to determine how much weight your vehicle

can tow:

Model

Passengers/Luggage

load - lb. (kg)

5/827 (375)

4/677 (307)

3/527 (239)

2/377 (171)

1/227 (103)

5/827 (375)

4/677 (307)

3/527 (239)

2/377 (171)

1/227 (103)

5/827 (375)

4/677 (307)

3/527 (239)

2/377 (171)

1/227 (103)

Maximum trailer

weight - lb. (kg)

630 (286)

3–door

780 (354)

930 (422)

1080 (490)

1230 (558)

585 (265)

735 (333)

885 (401)

1035 (469)

1185 (538)

500 (227)

4–door and 5–door

Wagon

650 (295)

800 (363)

950 (431)

1100 (499)

This chart is based on the specified vehicle at a maximum GCW

(Vehicle Weight + Trailer Weight) equal to 4,300 lb. (1,950 kg).

Towing a trailer places an additional load on your vehicle’s engine,

transaxle, brakes, tires and suspension. Inspect these components

carefully after towing.

Do not exceed the GVWR or the GAWR specified on the

certification label.

Towing trailers beyond the maximum recommended gross trailer

weight exceeds the limit of the vehicle and could result in

engine damage, transaxle damage, structural damage, increased risk of

loss of vehicle control, vehicle rollover and/or serious personal injury.

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Preparing to tow

Use the proper equipment for towing a trailer and make sure it is

properly attached to your vehicle. See your authorized dealer or a

reliable trailer dealer if you require assistance.

Hitches

Do not use hitches that clamp onto the vehicle bumper. Use a load

carrying hitch. You must distribute the load in your trailer so that

10–15% of the total weight of the trailer is on the tongue.

Safety chains

Always connect the trailer’s safety chains to the frame or hook retainers

of the vehicle hitch. To connect the trailer’s safety chains, cross the

chains under the trailer tongue and allow slack for turning corners.

If you use a rental trailer, follow the instructions that the rental agency

gives to you.

Do not attach safety chains to the bumper.

Trailer brakes

Electric brakes and manual, automatic or surge-type trailer brakes are safe

if installed properly and adjusted to the manufacturer’s specifications. The

trailer brakes must meet local and Federal regulations.

Do not connect a trailer’s hydraulic brake system directly to your

vehicle’s brake system. Your vehicle may not have enough

braking power and your chances of having a collision greatly increase.

The braking system of the tow vehicle is rated for operation at the

GVWR not GCWR.

Trailer lamps

Trailer lamps are required on most towed vehicles. Make sure all running

lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working. See your

authorized dealer or trailer rental agency for proper instructions and

equipment for hooking up trailer lamps.

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Driving while you tow

When towing a trailer:

• Turn off the speed control. The speed control may shut off

automatically when you are towing on long, steep grades.

• Consult your local motor vehicle speed regulations for towing a trailer.

• To eliminate excessive shifting, use a lower gear. This will also assist

in transaxle cooling.

• Anticipate stops and brake gradually.

• Do not exceed the GCWR rating or transaxle damage may occur.

Servicing after towing

If you tow a trailer for long distances, your vehicle will require more

frequent service intervals. Refer to your Scheduled Maintenance Guide

for more information.

Trailer towing tips

• Practice turning, stopping and backing up before starting on a trip to

get the feel of the vehicle trailer combination. When turning, make

wider turns so the trailer wheels will clear curbs and other obstacles.

• Allow more distance for stopping with a trailer attached.

• If you are driving down a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear. Do

not apply the brakes continuously, as they may overheat and become

less effective.

• The trailer tongue weight should be 10–15% of the loaded trailer

weight.

• After you have traveled 50 miles (80 km), thoroughly check your

hitch, electrical connections and trailer wheel lug nuts.

• To aid in engine/transmission cooling and A/C efficiency during hot

weather while stopped in traffic, place the gearshift lever in P (Park).

• Vehicles with trailers should not be parked on a grade. If you must

park on a grade, place wheel chocks under the trailer’s wheels.

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RECREATIONAL TOWING

Follow these guidelines for your specific powertrain combination to tow

your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground (such as behind a

recreational vehicle).

These guidelines are designed to ensure that your transmission is not

damaged due to insufficient lubrication.

All Front Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicles:

If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transaxle, you cannot tow

the vehicle with the front drive wheels on the ground. It is recommended

to tow your vehicle with the drive wheels on a dolly or two wheel car

hauling trailer.

In case of a roadside emergency with a disabled vehicle (without access

to wheel dollies, car hauling trailer or flatbed transport vehicle) your

vehicle can be flat towed (all wheels on the ground) under the following

conditions:

• Place the transmission in N (Neutral).

• Maximum speed is 35 mph (56 km/h).

• Maximum distance is 50 miles (80 km).

If your vehicle is equipped with a manual transaxle, and in the case of a

roadside emergency with a disabled vehicle (without access to wheel

dollies, car hauling trailer or flatbed transport vehicle) your vehicle can

be flat towed (all wheels on the ground) under the following conditions:

• Place the transmission in N (Neutral).

• Maximum distance is unlimited.

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Tires, Wheels and Loading for Your Ford Focus 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2010)

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