I think the requirement for tire pressure decals on all new cars is a little absurd. Most mechanics swear by those tire pressure decals now and they are touted like they are the gospel or something.
Here is my problem with the tire pressure decals...
I have seen some
new cars that have different types of tires mounted -
these are brand new cars mind you - and the tire pressure printed on those differing tires varies. For example, I saw a cobalt with Firestones, Goodyear and Dunlap (i think) and some said 35 max all the way to 45 max? That is just on new cars. My understanding is that some auto manufactures have contracts with different tire companies and some cars just get what is available at the time. So right there, I see a potential conflict.
Now lets say you replace the tires with something different...maybe you get a different compound, different manufacturer...who knows, but you change the tires. Maybe you go to a different size rim all together. It is very likely in this example that you will have altered the tire pressure requirement as designated by the tire manufacturer.
I have a hard time believing that whatever reccommended tire pressure is put on the decal always applies if you get different tires. Different manufacturing techniques and different tire types (like run flats vs all season vs mud and snow vs dry pavement) may likely require different pressures.
I feel bad for those who swear to go by that sticker instead of what the manufacturer put on their own tires. I guess the manufacturer of the tires doesn't know what they are talking about?
Help me understand this...where am I wrong or mistaken.
I get that the tire pressure on the decal is supposed to correlate with the weight of the vehicle but again tire manufacturers have different techniques, compounds and constructions. I would think people should be advised to go by what is printed on the tire.