TIRES AND WHEELS
If you have a flat tire, see “Flat tire” (P.6-3).
TYPES OF TIRES
Snow tires
If snow tires are needed, it is necessary to select tires
equivalent in size and load rating to the original
equipment tires. If you do not, it can adversely affect
the safety and handling of your vehicle.
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM
(TPMS) (if equipped)
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) monitors
tire pressure of all tires except the spare. When the low
tire pressure warning light is lit, one or more of your
tires is significantly under-inflated.
CAUTION:
When changing or replacing tires, be sure all
four tires are of the same type (that is, summer,
all season or snow) and construction. A NISSAN
dealer may be able to help you with information
about tire type, size, speed rating and avail-
ability.
Generally, snow tires have lower speed ratings than
factory equipped tires and may not match the potential
maximum vehicle speed. Never exceed the maximum
speed rating of the tire. If you install snow tires, they
must be the same size, brand, construction and tread
pattern on all four wheels.
The TPMS will activate only when the vehicle is driven
at speeds above 25 km/h (16 MPH). Also, this system
may not detect a sudden drop in tire pressure (for
example a flat tire while driving).
Replacement tires may have a lower speed rating than
the factory equipped tires, and they may not match the
potential maximum vehicle speed. Never exceed the
maximum speed rating of the tire.
For additional traction on icy roads, studded tires may
be used. However, some states and provinces prohibit
their use. Check local, state and provincial laws before
installing studded tires. Skid and traction capabilities
of studded snow tires on wet or dry surfaces may be
poorer than that of non-studded snow tires.
For more details about the TPMS, see “Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS)” (P.5-3).
For additional information, see “Low tire pressure
warning light” (P.2-13).
All season tires
NISSAN specifies all season tires on some models to
provide good performance all year, including snowy
and icy road conditions. All season tires are identified
by ALL SEASON and/or M&S on the tire sidewall.
Snow tires have better snow traction than all season
tires and may be more appropriate in some areas.
TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE
TIRE CHAINS
Periodically check the pressure of the tires, including
the spare. An incorrect tire pressure may adversely
affect tire life and vehicle handling. The tire pressure
should be checked when tires are COLD. Tires are
considered COLD after the vehicle has been parked
for 3 or more hours, or driven less than 1.6 km (1 mile).
COLD tire pressures are shown on the tire placard.
Use of tire chains may be prohibited according to
location. Check the local laws before installing tire
chains. When installing tire chains, make sure that they
are of proper size for the tires on your vehicle and are
installed according to the chain manufacturer’s in-
structions.
Summer tires
NISSAN specifies summer tires on some models to
provide superior performance on dry roads. Summer
tire performance is substantially reduced in snow and
ice. Summer tires do not have the tire traction rating
M&S on the tire sidewall.
Insufficient pressure can lead to an overheating of the
tire and subsequent internal damage. At high speeds,
this could result in tread separation and even bursting
of the tire.
Use chain tensioners when recommended by the tire
chain manufacturer to ensure a tight fit. Loose end links
of the tire chains must be secured or removed to
prevent the possibility of whipping action damage to
the fenders or underbody. If possible, avoid fully
loading your vehicle when using tire chains. In addition,
drive at a reduced speed. Otherwise, your vehicle may
be damaged and/or vehicle handling and performance
may be adversely affected.
If you plan to operate your vehicle in snowy or icy
conditions, NISSAN recommends the use of snow or
all season tires on all four wheels.
8-26 Maintenance and do-it-yourself