2005 Toyota Highlander Owners Manual - Page 388

'05 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0409) Checking and replacing tires Tread wear indicator The tires on your Toyota have built −in tread wear indicators to help you know when the tires need replacement. When the tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) or less, the indicators will appear. If you can see the indicators in two or more adjacent grooves, the tire should be replaced. The lower the tread, the higher the risk of skidding. The effectiveness of snow tires is lost if the tread wears down below 4 mm (0.16 in.). If you have tire damage such as cuts, splits, cracks deep enough to expose the fabric, or bulges indicating internal damage, the tire should be replaced. If a tire often goes flat or cannot be properly repaired due to the size or location of a cut or other damage, it should be replaced. If you are not sure, consult with your Toyota dealer. If air loss occurs while driving, do not continue driving. Driving even a short distance can damage a tire beyond repair. Any tires which are over 6 years old must be checked by a qualified technician even if damage is not obvious. Tires deteriorate with age even if they have never or seldom been used. This applies also to the spare tire and tires stored for future use. CHECKING YOUR TIRES Check the tire's tread for tread wear indicators. If the indicators show, replace the tires. The location of tread wear indicators is shown by the "TWI" or "∆ " marks, etc., molded on the sidewall of each tire. 388 2005 HIGHLANDER from Nov. '04 Prod. (OM48570U)