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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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2007 Focus (foc)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA (fus)

Tires, Wheels and Loading

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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2007 Focus (foc)

Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)

USA (fus)

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

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