HOW TO READ A CAR TIRE GAUGE, CARE AND REPAIR TIRES, AND MORE

Find all the answers you need in this FAQ section about the best Michelin tires Philippines has to offer. Learn more about tire care, tire installation, how to read a car tire pressure calculator and tire gauge, what to do when your tires get damaged, and more.

Installing Michelin tires

Which Michelin tires are right for my car? 

You can easily find the right Michelin tires for your car model and usage by visiting Michelin’s tire selector. You can also find the nearest dealer to obtain your new Michelin tires.

Where can I find Michelin tire prices?

Michelin establishes a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) for its tires. This price, however, is only a guide as Michelin cannot dictate the price at which authorized Michelin dealers sell our tires to consumers. To obtain a quote on the tires Philippines has available and tire-related services, please contact the your nearest Michelin dealer.

Must I replace my present tires with the same size tires?

Never choose a smaller size than those that came with the car. Tires should always be replaced with the same size designation – or approved options – as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or authorized dealer.

How do I determine if my current rim is approved for your tires?

The rim width range is extremely important. This range represents proper rim widths that will assist the tire/wheel assembly in meeting its performance potential. To achieve the best balance between ride, handling and tread wear, select a rim width in the middle of the manufacturer’s range.

To improve cornering traction and steering response, choose a rim at or near the maximum recommended width. The wider the rim width, the straighter the sidewall and the quicker the steering response. Conversely, using a rim width at the low end of the range will cause the tire to balloon or curve out, slowing steering response.

What is directional tread design?

Tires with directional tread patterns must be mounted so that the primary direction of rotation matches the directional arrows on the tire sidewall. If all four tires are the same size, directional tires can be rotated front to back.

Tires with tread patterns that are both asymmetric and directional require left and right specific tires. Sidewall markings will identify the side of the vehicle and the primary direction of rotation for the tire. If all four tires are the same size, they can be rotated front to back.

Technical Information and Definitions

Can I use a lower speed-rated tire than what came on the vehicle?

We recommend that the replacement tire size speed rating be equal to or higher than that of the OE tire-size speed rating. If you choose to go with a lower speed rating, the vehicle’s top speed becomes limited to that of the lower speed-rating tire.

How do I determine if my current rim is approved for your tires?

The rim width range is extremely important. This range represents proper rim widths that will assist the tire/wheel assembly in meeting its performance potential. To achieve the best balance between ride, handling and tread wear, select a rim width in the middle of the manufacturer’s range.

To improve cornering traction and steering response, choose a rim at or near the maximum recommended width. The wider the rim width, the straighter the sidewall and the quicker the steering response. Conversely, using a rim width at the low end of the range will cause the tire to balloon or curve out, slowing steering response.

Refer to our website for tire specifications.

Should I learn how to read the sidewall of my tire?

The side of a tire contains information needed for the safety of everyone in the car and on the road. Being able to read sidewall markings will help you to better understand the performance of each tire. It will also provide you with information when mounting and servicing the tire.

You can read more about reading the markings on your tire’s sidewall in this guide.

How much load or weight can my tire carry?

Never exceed the load-carrying limits molded on the sidewall of the tires or the maximum vehicle axle load limit as shown on the vehicle tire placard, whichever is less. Overloading builds up excessive heat in the tire and could lead to failure.

What are zero pressure tires?

Zero pressure tires are designed to operate for a limited time with little or no air pressure without causing damage to the tire casing. In order to realise the zero pressure benefits, the tires must be mounted on proper wheels and the wheels must be equipped with an operational, Michelin-approved low Tire air pressure warning system.

Customizing my vehicle with performance tyres 

What guidelines should I follow when mixing tires on 4WD vehicles?

If no instructions for tire mixing appear in the vehicle owner’s manual, stick to the following guidelines:

  • Do not mix sizes. All four tires must be branded with the same tire size.
  • Do not mix radial and non-radial tires. All four tires must be either radial or non-radial.
  • Ensure that the outside circumference of all four tires is within 2.5 cm (one (1) inch) of each other.
  • Do not mix tread pattern types.

 

What is a Directional tread design?

Tires with directional tread patterns must be mounted so that the primary direction of rotation matches the directional arrows on the tire sidewall. If all four tires are the same size, directional Tires can be rotated front to back.

Tires with tread patterns that are both asymmetric and directional require left and right specific tires. Sidewall markings will identify the side of the vehicle and the primary direction of rotation for the tire. If all four tires are the same size, they can be rotated front to back.

Which Michelin Tires are right for my car?

You can easily find the right MICHELIN tires for your car model and usage by visiting Michelin’s Tire selector. You can also find the nearest dealer to obtain your new MICHELIN tires.

Where can I get all Tire-care information to gain more years on my tires and Tire care in general?

It’s always good to have your Tires checked up regularly, so please visit our online training centre to take full advantage of your Michelin Tires.

How do I acquire Michelin's Tire prices?

Michelin establishes a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) for its tires. This price, however, is only a guide as Michelin cannot dictate the price at which authorised MICHELIN dealers sell our tires to consumers. To obtain a quote on tires and tire-related services, please contact the your nearest MICHELIN dealer, locate your dealer here.

What’s the appropriate Tire pressure for my car?

Proper inflation is the single most important part of tire care. The inflation pressure on the side of the tire is the maximum operating pressure, but it might not be the right inflation for your vehicle.

nominal infaltion pressure

Always use the inflation recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. The vehicle manufacturer selects the size and type of tires for their vehicles. They perform the necessary testing to establish the vehicles’ optimized operating tire inflation pressures which can be found on the vehicle placard (located on the inside of the driver's door) and in the vehicle owners’ manual.

If the tires on your vehicle are the same size as the original equipment tire (OE tire), inflate them to the pressures indicated on the placard.

Your Michelin dealer or retailer can answer any questions you may have about tire inflation.

Tire Care and Maintenance

It’s always good to have your tires checked up regularly. Visit our online training center to get the most out of your Michelin tires, and read some of our tips below.  

Do my driving habits affect the life of my tires?

Yes. Here are several tips to help increase the life of your tires:

  • Don’t speed. High speeds can generate excessive heat, which can increase the rate of tire wear. Drive at the safe, legal speed limit.
  • Avoid fast turns on curves and around corners.
  • Avoid fast starts and panic stops.
  • Don’t ride on the edge of the road or drive over kerbs, potholes, or other obstructions.

 

Do my new tires require special treatment?

Special treatment is not required for your new tires. However, drive carefully while you get accustomed to them. You may feel a difference when accelerating, braking, cornering or possibly driving in wet conditions.


How and when should I rotate my tires?

We recommend following our preferred tyre rotation patterns as shown below:

car edito preferred tyres rotation patterns faq
car edito dual rotation patterns faq

How do I take care of my new tires?

Properly maintained tires can help deliver a more comfortable ride and longer tread life. Here’s how to care for your new tires:

  • Check your tire pressure monthly with a tire air pressure gauge. Make sure that the tires are cold. Wait at least 3 hours after driving before testing.
  • Check your tires frequently for any cuts, snags, punctures, any other injury, or irregular tire wear.
  • At the first sign of irregular tread-wear, have your alignment checked.
  • Make sure that the tires are balanced when they are mounted on the wheels.
  • Rotate your tires following the schedule in your vehicle owners manual or as required by the tire manufacturer’s warranty.


You can read more tips about tire care and maintenance here.  

How many kilometers will I get out of my tires?

Many factors can affect the tread life of your tires, such as: 

  • Tread compounds
  • Construction features
  • Vehicle application
  • Tire maintenance
  • Geographic conditions
  • Atmospheric conditions
  • Driving habits
  • And more

That’s why exact mileage is impossible to predict. Take special care when braking, accelerating and cornering to help increase the life of the tire. If you have concerns about the rate of wear on your tires, consult your local authorized Michelin retailer.

How should I care for tires that I have in storage?

Tires should be stored in a cool place away from direct sunlight, sources of heat and ozone such as hot pipes and electric generators. Exposure to these elements during prolonged periods of time will exhaust the tire's oxidation and weathering agents within the rubber compounds and result in cracking. Be sure that the surfaces on which the tires are stored are clean and free from grease, fuel or other substances that could deteriorate the rubber.

For mounted tires, inflate at (but no higher than) the recommended air pressure. Store vehicles on blocks to remove the load from the tires.

Is it safe to repair a flat tire?

If a tire loses all or most of its air pressure, it must be removed from the wheel for a complete internal inspection to be sure that it's not damaged. Tires that are run for even short distances while flat are often damaged beyond repair.

Most punctures, nail holes, or cuts of up to 0.6 cm (1/4 inch) – confined to the tread – may be satisfactorily repaired by trained personnel using industry-approved methods. Don't repair tires with tread punctures of larger than 0.6 cm (1/4 inch), or any sidewall puncture. Also, never repair tires which are worn below 1/16 inch tread depth.

Your best bet is to make sure that your spare tire is always ready to do the job. Check it regularly for proper air pressure and be sure that it is in good shape. If your car is equipped with one of the several types of temporary spares, be sure to check the spare tire's sidewall for the correct inflation pressure, speed and mileage limitations. See your dealer for expert tire repair.

Is there a time period on breaking in my new tires?

New tires have to be driven for a few hundred miles on dry roads to rid the tread of the parting agents and antioxidants applied during production. Not until the tread has been slightly roughened will the tire be able to make its true gripping power felt.

New tires and tire replacement

Is there a way to tell when I need new tires?

Tread-wear indicators ("wear bars") are located at the base of the main grooves and are equally spaced around the tire. The tread-wear indicators, which look like narrow strips of smooth rubber across the tread, will appear on the tire when that point of wear is reached. When you see these wear bars, the tire is worn out and it's time to replace the tire. Always remove tires from service when they reach a remaining tread depth of two thirty-seconds of an inch (2/32").

car edito pennyintread faq

You can learn more about how to read tire tread depth in our guide to interpreting tire wear indicators.

Must I replace my present tires with the same size tires?

Never choose a smaller size than those that came with the car. Tires should always be replaced with the same size designation - – or approved options – as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or authorized dealer

Should my tires be balanced?

Proper balancing is critical for optimal vehicle performance, especially at today's higher motorway speeds. When tire and wheel assemblies are unbalanced, a vibration can result from wheel and assembly shimmy (shaking from side to side) or wheel assembly tramp (tire and wheel hopping up and down). Therefore, it is important that these assemblies are in both static and dynamic balance

What is proper alignment?

A vehicle is said to be properly aligned when all suspension and steering components are sound, and when the tire and wheel assemblies are running straight and true.

Proper alignment is necessary for even tread wear and precise steering. Uneven front or rear tire wear, or changes in your vehicle's handling or steering response (i.e. pulling to one side) can indicate misalignment. Many vehicles today are equipped with rear suspensions that can be adjusted for alignment. Your vehicle many need a "front-end" alignment or a "four-wheel" alignment, depending on the symptoms you are experiencing. The moderate cost of having your vehicle aligned can more than pay for itself in tire mileage, performance and comfort. 

What is the correct air pressure for my tires?

The vehicle manufacturer selects the size and type of tires for their vehicles. They perform the necessary testing to establish the vehicles’ optimized operating tire inflation pressures which can be found on the vehicle placard (located on the inside of the driver's door) and in the vehicle owners’ manual.

If the tires on your vehicle are the same size as the original equipment tire, inflate them to the pressures indicated on the placard.

How do I use a tire gauge?

Read a tire air pressure gauge by pressing the gauge’s head against the tire valve. If you are using a dial tire gauge, check the needle to see your PSI (pounds per square inch) reading. If you are using a digital tire pressure gauge, press the tire gauge against the tire’s nozzle.

Observe whether the needle on your tire air pressure gauge is steady, or if it is moving. A moving pressure gauge can indicate issues, including if you’re using a pump.

Once you get a reading from the tire gauge, compare it to the recommended tire pressure to determine whether you need to adjust your tire pressure.


What is your opinion on the use of nitrogen in tires?

Nitrogen is an inert gas. It is simply dry air with the oxygen removed (air contains nearly 79% Nitrogen). The physical properties of nitrogen reduce the pressure loss due to the natural permeability of the materials of the tire. Unfortunately, there are other possible sources of leaks (tire/rim interface, valve, valve/rim interface and the wheel) which prevent the guarantee of pressure maintenance for individuals using air or nitrogen inflation.

Tires manufactured by Michelin are designed to deliver their expected performance when inflated with air or nitrogen, as long as the user respects the pressures recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle's placard or those of the tire manufacturer. Whether they are inflated with air or nitrogen, regular pressure maintenance remains critical.

Under-inflated tires lead to:

- A reduction in road holding

- A reduction in wet traction capability

- An increased sensitivity to road hazards

- A reduction in tread-life

- An increase in fuel consumption

- A reduction in tire life due to excessive heat from over deflection
 

Tire damage and tire problems 

How should I look for damage when inspecting my tires?

In addition to performing regular maintenance, you must also keep an eye out for potential problems that might affect your tires. Regular inspections can help you prevent tire trouble, and keep you rolling safely down the road. When inspecting your tires, look for:

  • Uneven tread wear : This can include more wear on one tread edge than the other, a rippled pattern of high and low wear, or exposed steel wire. Uneven wear can be caused by problems such as under-inflation, misalignment and improper balancing.
  • Troublemakers : Check for small stones, pieces of glass, bits of metal and other foreign objects that might be wedged into the tread, and carefully pick them out. They can cause serious problems if they are pushed farther into your tire as you drive.
  • Damaged areas : Cracks, cuts, splits, punctures, holes and bulges in the tread or on the sides of the tire can indicate serious problems, and the tire may need to be replaced.
  • Slow leaks: Tires lose some air pressure (about 2 psi) over the course of a month or so, but if you find that you have to add air every few days, have the tire, wheel and valve checked—and if necessary, repair or replace the tire.
  • Valve caps : Those little caps on your tire’s valve stem keep moisture and dirt out, so make sure they are on all your tires. Also, when you have a tire replaced, have a new valve stem assembly installed at the same time.


Driving on a damaged tire can be dangerous. If you see something that you’re not sure about during your inspection, have it examined by your tire dealer. Any time that you see damage to a tire, don’t drive on it – use a spare if you need to go somewhere. And finally, pay attention to the “feel” of your tires as you drive. A rough ride may indicate tire damage or excessive wear.

If you notice vibrations or other disturbances while driving, and/or you suspect possible damage to your tire or vehicle, immediately reduce speed, drive with caution until you can safely pull off the road and stop, and inspect your tires. If a tire is damaged, deflate it and replace it with your spare. If you do not see any tire damage and cannot identify the source of the vibration, take the vehicle to a tire dealer for a thorough inspection.

What should I do if I notice a vibration?

Vibration is an indication that your car has a problem that needs attention. The tires, steering system and suspension system should be checked to help determine the possible cause and correction of the vibration. If left unattended, the vibration could cause excessive tire and suspension wear, and can be dangerous. Contact our authorized dealers get expert diagnosis and repair.

When should I check my air pressure?

Air pressure in tires, including the spare, should be checked at least monthly and always before extended driving. Do not reduce pressure or measure your tires when they are hot. Tires should be checked when they are cold (at least three hours after the vehicle has been stopped and before it is driven more than one mile or two kilometers).

Over- or under-inflation may adversely affect vehicle handling. Under-inflation produces extreme flexing of the tire and builds up heat to the point that tire failure may occur.

Tread Contact With Road


 

Where should I mount the tires if I only purchase two?

Michelin recommends replacing all four tires at the same time. However, when replacing only two new tires, be sure that the new tires are the same size and tire type as the current tires and that the dealer always installs the new tires on the rear axle of the vehicle.

Why Put the Two New Tires on the Rear Axle? 

New tires provide better wet grip than your half-worn tires. This will help to reduce the potential for the vehicle to fish-tail and lose stability in wet conditions.

Tire Replacement

Where do I install new tires if I only buy two?

Michelin recommends replacing all four tires at the same time, however, if replacing only two new tires, be sure that the new tires are the same size & tire type as the current tires and that the dealer always installs the new tires on the rear axle of the vehicle. Click here for more information

Why Put the Two New Tires on the Rear Axle? 

  • The New tires will provide better wet grip than your half-worn tires.
  • It will help to reduce the potential for the vehicle to fishtail and lose stability in wet conditions

Tire Problems

Can I drive on a flat tire that does not have run-flat technology?

No. Michelin does not recommend driving on tires without run flat technology. Michelin Run-Flat tires have reinforced sidewalls designed to support the load of the vehicle in case of a pressure drop and allow continued driving for up to 50 miles (depending on road and driving conditions) at a maximum speed of 50 mph. Standard tires do not have this technology.

What are road hazard injuries?

Road hazard damage is damage that occurs when a tire fails as a result of a puncture, bruise or break incurred during the course of normal driving on a maintained road. Nails, glass and potholes are the most common examples of road hazards.

Avoid running over objects (e.g. potholes, rocks, kerbs, metal and glass, etc.) which may cause internal tire damage. Internal damage, not visible without demounting the tire, may be caused when a tire runs over an object. Continued use of a tire that has suffered internal damage (which may not be externally visible) can lead to dangerous tire failure. If you suspect internal damage, take your tire to be examined by an expert.

What are the causes of center tread wear?

When the center tread wears faster than the adjacent tread surfaces, possible causes include over inflation for load carried, rim width too narrow, misapplication, smooth wear after spin-out, improper tire rotation practices, aggressive acceleration or under-inflation for certain tire types, such as performance tires.

If the tread depth is at or below 1.58 mm (2/32") in any groove or if cord material or under tread is exposed, the tire must be replaced. If sufficient tread remains, verify the proper rim width and vehicle fitment as well as verifying/adjusting inflation pressures, then rotate the tires for maximum wear.

What can cause my tire to show One-Sided Shoulder Wear?

When the shoulder of the tread on one side of a tire wears faster than the adjacent tread surface, this can result from a variety of conditions, such as front and/or rear misalignment (example, toe or camber), loose or worn suspension components, hard cornering, improper tire-rotation practices, misapplication, high crown roads or non-uniform mounting.

If the tread depth is at or below 1.58 mm (2/32") in any groove or if either cord or under tread is exposed, the tire must be replaced. If sufficient tread remains, verify that the tire has been properly mounted, then rotate the tires for maximum wear.

What can cause my tire to wear in more than one spot around the circumference?

When the tire tread is worn in one or more spots around the tire circumference, this can indicate brake lock or skid, improper balance, localized underlying separation, loose or worn suspension components, improper bead seating or mounting, progression from initial tread cut, chip, or road hazard injury or chemical contamination. Surface texture may have initially shown abrasion marks from the tire sliding on the road, but the surface may have since worn smooth.

When the tires with a flat spot are used in a dual application, you may consider rotating one tire 180 degrees in relation to the flat spot on the other tire.

If the tread depth is at or below 1.58 mm (2/32") in any groove or if either cord or under tread is exposed, the tire must be replaced.

When the cause of the flat spot is not apparent, your tire dealer should contact our Consumer Care Department.

What can cause my tire tread face to show one rib higher than the other?

Feathering is a condition when the edge of each tread rib develops a slightly rounded edge on one side and a sharp edge on the other. The most common causes of feathering are incorrect toe-in setting or deteriorated bushings in the front suspension. The toe setting should be as close to 0 as possible for the optimum wear.

The tires should be inflated to the pressure as indicated on the sticker on the inside of the driver’s door. The vehicle manufacturer has determined this pressure is optimal for load, ride, handling, rolling resistance and tread-wear performance.

What can cause the sidewall of my tires to start turning a brownish color?

The brownish color on the sidewall of your tires is not a defect. The source of this discoloration can be varied. One possibility is that the tires contain an anti-ozone agent in their rubber compounds to slow down the ill effects of exposure to ozone in the air. This anti-ozone ingredient will migrate to the surface of the rubber and leave the appearance of a brownish dust. This is completely normal and technically is no cause for concern. In time, depending on usage, it will disappear.

Other possibilities for discoloration can be simply dust that is picked up from normal driving or brake dust which is generated by the abrasion of the brake pads against the brake rotor. This latter condition is more prevalent when the brakes are new or have recently been relined. In all cases, we recommend that you continue to clean your tires with mild soap and water.

What causes a tire to wear out?

Tread-wear or life expectancy is determined by many factors:
Driving habits and style of driving, geographical location, type of vehicle, type of tire, how the vehicle is maintained and how tires are maintained, etc.

As a result, mileage expectancy is impossible to determine.

Our Limited Warranty covers defects in workmanship and material for the life of the tread or six years from the original date of purchase, whichever occurs first. We offer no mileage warranty on the tires that were originally equipped on your vehicle.

We suggest that you have the tires/vehicle inspected by a participating tire retailer in your area to determine if there is perhaps a mechanical or maintenance issue that could be contributing to a rapid or irregular wear pattern.

Your satisfaction is important to us. Please have the dealer contact us with the tire inspection as we are willing to offer you assistance with your concern

What causes sidewall Indentations on my tire?

Sidewall indentions, or sidewall undulations, are a common characteristic of radial tire construction. They are purely a visual characteristic and will not affect the performance of the tire. These indentations are more noticeable in larger or wider radial-ply tire sizes and become more visible with higher inflation pressures.

The joining of the ply material in the sidewall area may cause a slight indentation or wavy appearance on the sidewall surface of the tire when it is inflated. However, if bulges, rather than indentations appear on the sidewall of the tire, or if there is any question concerning any sidewall indentations, please contact a tire dealer for a tire inspection. 

What could be the cause of my tires making a loud noise?

Noise is most commonly due to an uneven or irregular wear pattern that has developed on the tires. 

We suggest that you have the tires inspected by a participating tire retailer in your area. To find the dealers near you, refer to the Yellow Pages of your telephone book or utilize the Dealer Locator on our website.

What should I do if I notice a vibration?

Vibration is an indication that your car has a problem that needs attention. The tires, steering system and suspension system should be checked to help determine the possible cause and correction of the vibration. If left unattended, the vibration could cause excessive tire and suspension wear. It could even be dangerous. Authorized Dealers offer expert diagnosis and repair

The Michelin tire warranty

Our limited warranty covers defects in workmanship and material for the life of the tread or six years from the original date of purchase, whichever occurs first. We offer no mileage warranty on the tires that were originally equipped on your vehicle.

You can find warranty information from any authorized Michelin tire dealer, or visit our warranty section.

Need more help?

If you’re looking for more advice on how to read tire markings or your tire gauge, and more information on tire maintenance, visit our advice section. Or, use our tire dealer locator and get advice from your local expert.

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