The tire pressure stamped on the sidewall of a tire only tells you what the maximum amount of pressure that tire will hold. It tells you absolutely nothing about what tire pressure is recommended for your car.

I clipped an article from an automotive trade magazine that discussed this issue.

It speaks to the confusion regarding what is the proper tire pressure - what is stamped on the tires, or what the decal inside of the door or on the 'B' pillar says. Following is an excerpt:

The Rubber Manufacturers Association told federal regulators that those pressures stamped on the sidewalls of tires should be eliminated. They are, simply, the maximum inflation pressure for the tire but are a "source of misinformation and confusion" for consumers, the group said.

Donald Shea, RMA president, went on to explain that "the current listing (on the sidewall) of the maximum pressure on tires is not the recommended normal inflation pressure."

Rather, you should use the tire pressure recommendations found on your vehicle's decal - also in the owner's manual for your vehicle- to properly inflate your tires. These figures are determined specifically for your vehicle and take into account your vehicle's weight, handling characteristics, etc.

__________________
Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".