2004 Mercury Monterey Owner's Manual - Page 256

Maintenance and Specifications Information on "T" type tires T145/80D16 is an example of a tire size. Note: The temporary tire size for your vehicle may be different than 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 tires 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 driver's door. TIRE CARE Improper or inadequate vehicle maintenance can also cause tires to wear abnormally. Here are some of the important maintenance items: Tire inflation pressure Use a tire gauge to check the tire inflation pressure, including the spare, 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 recommends the use of a digital or dial type tire pressure gauge rather than a stick type tire pressure gauge. 256 2004 Monterey (mty) Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt) USA English (fus)