2003 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 234

'03 Rav4_U (L/O 0208) Checking and replacing tires Tread wear indicator 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 an air loss occurs while driving, do not continue driving with a deflated tire. Driving even a short distance can damage a tire beyond repair. REPLACING YOUR TIRES Two-wheel drive models-When replacing a tire, use only the same size and construction as originally installed and with the same or greater load capacity. Four-wheel drive models-When replacing tires, make sure all the tires are the same brand. Only use the same size and construction as the originally installed tires, with the same or greater load capacity. Using any other size or type of tire may seriously affect handling, ride, speedometer/odometer calibration, ground clearance, and clearance between the body and tires or snow chains. CHECKING YOUR TIRES Check the tire tread for the tread wear indicators. If the indicators show, replace the tires. 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.). 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 also applies to the spare tire and tires stored for future use. CAUTION Observe the following instructions. Otherwise, an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries. D Do not mix radial, bias belted, or bias-ply tires on your vehicle, as this may cause dangerous handling characteristics resulting in loss of control. 234 2003 RAV4 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM42517U)