CHASSIS
212If 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 Lexus 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.
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.
Uniform tire quality grading
This information has been prepared in accordance with
regulations issued by the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration of the U.S. Department of
Transportation. It provides the purchasers and/or
prospective purchasers of Lexus vehicles with
information on uniform tire quality grading.
You Lexus dealer will help answer any questions you
may have as you read this information.
DOT quality grades ± All passenger vehicle tires must
conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to
these grades. These quality grades are molded on the
sidewall.
Treadwear ± The treadwear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under
controlled conditions on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half
(1±1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon
the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart
significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits,
service practices and differences in road characteristics and
climate.
Traction A, B, C ± The traction grades from highest to
lowest, are A, B and C, and they represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt
and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction
performance.
