How to read your tire door placard

Where to find it

On most passenger vehicles sold in the US, the tire information placard is on the driver’s door jamb (B-pillar area). Some vehicles also list tire data in the owner’s manual or fuel-filler area. If labels conflict, follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidance and ask a qualified technician.

What the placard typically shows

• Original equipment tire size (for example, 225/65R17)
• Cold inflation pressure for front and rear (and sometimes a spare)
• Occasionally notes about temporary spare limitations

Why pressure on the placard is not the sidewall max

The large PSI number molded on a tire sidewall is a maximum cold pressure for the tire’s construction — not the recommended operating pressure for your vehicle. Use the placard (or OEM manual) values unless a manufacturer service bulletin says otherwise.

Before you change sizes

Plus-sizing or alternate sizes can affect speedometer accuracy, load capacity, clearance, and driver-assistance calibration. Confirm compatibility with OEM documentation and a licensed installer — do not rely solely on an online size picker.

Also verify load index and speed rating meet or exceed OEM requirements for your trim and options package.