2004 Dodge Intrepid Owner Manual - Page 137

STARTING AND OPERATING 137 2. Economy- Improper inflation pressures can cause uneven wear patterns to develop across the tire tread. These abnormal wear patterns will reduce tread life resulting in a need for earlier tire replacement. Under inflation also increases tire rolling resistance and results in higher fuel consumption. 3. Ride Comfort and Vehicle Stability- Proper tire inflation contributes to a comfortable ride. Over inflation produces a jarring and uncomfortable ride. Both under-inflation and over inflation affect the stability of the vehicle and can produce a feeling of sluggish response or over-responsiveness in the steering. Unequal tire pressures can cause erratic and unpredictable steering response. Unequal tire pressure from side to side may cause the vehicle to drift left or right. Tire Inflation Pressures The proper tire pressure for your vehicle is listed on a label attached to the rear face of the driver's door. The pressure should be checked and adjusted at least once every month. Check more often if subject to a wide range of outdoor temperatures, as tire pressures vary with temperature changes. 5 Inflation pressures specified on the label are always "cold inflation pressure". Cold inflation pressure is defined as the tire pressure after the vehicle has not been driven for at least 3 hours, or driven less than a mile after a 3 hour