2005 Nissan Maxima Owner's Manual - Page 243

WHEELS AND TIRES If you have a flat tire, see the "In case of emergency" section of this manual. Set the tire pressure to the normal cold tire inflation pressure when the vehicle speed or load is reduced. Incorrect tire pressure, including under inflation, may adversely affect tire life and vehicle handling. ● Increase the cold tire inflation pressure as indicated in Checking tire pressure later in this section when using the tires specified by NISSAN above 100 MPH (162 km/h) where it is legal to do so (on a race track for example). Failure to increase the cold tire inflation pressure may result in tire failure, loss of control and possible injury. After such use, readjust tire pressure. ● Do not drive your vehicle over 85 MPH (137 km/h) unless it is equipped with high speed rated tires. Driving faster than 85 MPH (137 km/h) may result in tire failure, loss of control and possible injury. ● For additional information regarding tires, refer to "Important Tire Safety Information" (US) or "Tire Safety Information" (Canada) in the Warranty Information Booklet. TIRE PRESSURE Tire inflation pressure Check the tire pressures (including the spare) often and always prior to long distance trips. The recommended tire pressure specifications are shown on the Tire and Loading Information label under the Recommended Cold Tire Inflation Pressure heading. The Tire and Loading Information label is affixed to the driver side center pillar. Tire pressures should be checked regularly because: ● Most tires naturally lose air over time. ● Tires can lose air suddenly when driven over potholes or other objects or if the vehicle strikes a curb while parking. The tire pressures should be checked when the tires are cold. The tires are considered COLD after the vehicle has been parked for 3 or more hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1.6 km) at moderate speeds. If the tires are used at speeds above 100 mph (162 km/h) where it is legal to do so (on a race track for example), the cold tire inflation pressure must be increased. Refer to Checking tire pressure later in this section. WARNING ● Improperly inflated tires can fail suddenly and cause an accident. ● The vehicle weight capacity is indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label. Do not load your vehicle beyond this capacity. Overloading your vehicle may result in reduced tire life, unsafe operating conditions due to premature tire failure, or unfavorable handling characteristics and could also lead to a serious accident. Loading beyond the specified capacity may also result in failure of other vehicle components. ● Before taking a long trip, or whenever you heavily load your vehicle, use a tire pressure gauge to ensure that the tire pressures are at the specified level. Maintenance and do-it-yourself 8-31