2009 Subaru Impreza Owners Manual

blade assembly.

1) Open the cover 2) Pull down the wiper blade

2. Remove the wiper blade assembly by opening the cover and pulling it down in the direction shown in the illustration. 3. Install the wiper blade assembly to the wiper arm. Make sure that it locks in place. 4. Hold the wiper arm by hand and slowly lower it in position.

1) Metal support

1. Grasp the locked end of the blade rubber assembly and pull it firmly until the stoppers on the rubber are free of the metal support.

1) Metal spines

2. If the new blade rubber is not provided with two metal spines, remove the metal spines from the old blade rubber and install them in the new blade rubber.

3. Align the claws of the metal support

with the grooves in the rubber and slide the blade rubber assembly into the metal support until it locks.

& Rear window wiper blade

assembly

1. Raise the wiper arm off window.

the rear

Maintenance and service 11-43

3. Pull the wiper blade assembly toward you to remove it from the wiper arm.

& Rear window wiper blade

rubber

2. Turn the wiper blade assembly coun- terclockwise.

1) Stopper

4. Be sure to position the claws at the end of the metal support between the stoppers on the rubber as shown. If the rubber is not retained properly, the wiper blade may scratch the windshield.

NOTE The illustration shows the replacement procedure for type A rubber wiper blades, however the replacement pro- cedure is the same for type B. Perform the replacement of type B wiper blades following the procedure in this section.

– CONTINUED –

11-44 Maintenance and service

1. Pull out the end of the blade rubber assembly to unlock it from the plastic support.

3. If the new blade rubber is not provided with two metal spines, remove the metal spines from the old blade rubber and install them in the new blade rubber.

2. Pull the blade rubber assembly out of the plastic support.

4. Align the claws of the plastic support with the grooves in the blade rubber assembly, then slide the blade rubber assembly into place.

Securely retain both ends of the rubber with the stoppers on the plastic support ends. If the rubber is not retained properly, the wiper may scratch the rear window glass. 5. Install the wiper blade assembly to the wiper arm. Make sure that it locks in place. 6. Hold the wiper arm by hand and slowly lower it in position.

1) Metal spines

remove rings, metal watchbands, and other metal jewelry. Never allow metal tools to contact the positive battery terminal and any- thing connected to it WHILE you are at the same time in contact with any other metallic portion of the vehicle because a short cir- cuit will result.

. Keep everyone including children

away from the battery.

. Charge the battery in a well-

ventilated area.

. Battery posts, terminals and re- lated accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Batteries also contain other chemicals known to the State of California to cause can- cer. Washhandsafterhandling.

Battery

WARNING

. Before beginning work on or near any battery, be sure to extinguish all cigarettes, matches, and light- ers. Never expose a battery to an open flame or electric sparks. Batteries give off a gas which is highly flammable and explosive. . For safety, in case an explosion does occur, wear eye protection or shield your eyes when work- ing near any battery. Never lean over a battery.

. Do not let battery fluid contact eyes, skin, fabrics, or paint be- cause battery fluid is a corrosive acid. If battery fluid gets on your skin or in your eyes, immediately flush the area with water thor- oughly. Seek medical help imme- diately if acid has entered the eyes. If battery fluid is accidentally swallowed, immediately drink a large amount of milk or water, and seek medical attention im- mediately.

. To lessen the risk of sparks,

Maintenance and service 11-45

1) Cap 2) Upper level 3) Lower level

It is unnecessary to periodically check the battery fluid level or periodically refill with distilled water. However, if the battery fluid level is below the lower level, remove the cap. Fill to the upper level with distilled water.

CAUTION

Never use more than 10 amperes when charging the battery because it will shorten battery life.

11-46 Maintenance and service

Fuses

CAUTION

Never replace a fuse with one hav- ing a higher rating or with material other than a fuse because serious damage or a fire could result.

The fuses are designed to melt during an overload to prevent damage to the wiring harness and electrical equipment. The fuses are located in two fuse boxes.

The other one is housed in the engine compartment.

The fuse puller is stored in the main fuse box in the engine compartment.

One is located under the instrument panel behind the fuse box cover on the driver’s seat side. To remove the cover, pull it out.

The spare fuses are stored in the main fuse box cover in the engine compart- ment.

1) Good 2) Blown

If any lights, accessories or other electrical controls do not operate, the

inspect

Main fuse

corresponding fuse. If a fuse has blown, replace it. 1. Turn the ignition switch to the “LOCK” position and turn off all electrical acces- sories. 2. Remove the cover. 3. Determine which fuse may be blown. See the back side of each fuse box cover and refer to “Fuses and circuits” F12-6.

Main fuse box

Maintenance and service 11-47

Installation of accessories

Always consult your SUBARU dealer before installing fog lights or any other electrical equipment in your vehicle. Such accessories may cause the electronic system to malfunction if they are incor- rectly installed or if they are not suited for the vehicle.

The main fuses are designed to melt during an overload to prevent damage to the wiring harness and electrical equip- ment. Check the main fuses if any electrical component fails to operate (ex- cept the starter motor) and other fuses are good. A melted main fuse must be replaced. Use only replacements with the same specified rating as the melted main fuse. is replaced, have the electrical system checked by your nearest SUBARU dealer.

If a main fuse blows after

it

If

Inspect

the fuse.

4. Pull out the fuse with the fuse puller. 5. it has blown, replace it with a spare fuse of the same rating. 6. this indicates that its system has a problem. Contact your SUBARU dealer for repairs.

the same fuse blows again,

If

11-48 Maintenance and service

Replacing bulbs

NOTE Lights from A to C are the LED (Light Emitting Diode) type. Consult your SUBARU dealer for replacement.

1) High beam headlight 2)

Low beam headlight (except WRX STI) Low beam headlight (WRX STI) Front turn signal/Front side marker light

Front fog light Trunk room light (4-door)

3) 4) Map light 5) Dome light 6) 7) 8) High mount stop light (4-door, if equipped) 9) Rear turn signal light (4-door) 10) Back-up light (4-door) 11) Brake/tail and rear side marker light (4-door)

12) Cargo area light (5-door) 13) Rear side marker light (5-door) 14) Rear turn signal light (5-door) 15) Back-up light (5-door) 16) Licence plate light A) High mount stop light (5-door) B) Brake/tail light (5-door) C) High mount stop light (4-door, if equipped)

Maintenance and service 11-49

Wattage

Bulb No.

CAUTION

12V-60W 12V-55W 12V-35W 12V-27/8W 12V-8W 12V-8W 12V-51W 12V-5W 12V-21W 12V-21W 12V-16W 12V-21/5W

12V-5W 12V-5W 12V-21W 12V-21W 12V-5W –

–

–

9005 (HB3) H11
D2S 1157NA –

–

9006 (HB4) (W5W) (P21W) (WY21W) 921
7443
(W21/5W) –

168
(WY21W) 7440
168 (W5W) –

–

–

Replace any bulb only with a new bulb of the specified wattage. Using a bulb of different wattage could result in a fire.

& Headlights (WRX STI)

WARNING

High-intensity-discharge (HID) bulbs are used for the low beams of the headlights. These HID bulbs use an extremely high voltage. To avoid the risk of an electric shock and result- ing serious injury, you should not attempt to replace them. Neither should you attempt to replace the high-beam bulbs, remove/refit the headlight assemblies, or remove any headlight-assembly compo- nents. For replacement of the head- light bulbs (low-beam and high- beam), removal and installation of the headlight assemblies, and re- moval of headlight-assembly com- ponents, contact your SUBARU dealer.

– CONTINUED –

11-50 Maintenance and service

& Headlight (except WRX STI)

! Low beam light bulbs

2. Use a screwdriver to remove the secured clip of the washer tank. To make it easy to access the bulb, move the washer tank to the horizontal direction (left-hand side).

CAUTION

Halogen headlight bulbs become very hot while in use. If you touch the bulb surface with bare hands or greasy gloves, fingerprints or grease on the bulb surface will develop into hot spots, causing the bulb to break. there are finger prints or grease on the bulb surface, wipe them away with a soft cloth moistened with alcohol.

If

NOTE . If headlight aiming is required, con- sult your SUBARU dealer for proper adjustment of the headlight aim. . It may be difficult to replace the bulbs. Have the bulbs replaced by your SUBARU dealer if necessary.

Right-hand side

1. Use a screwdriver to undo the clips on the air intake duct, then remove the air intake duct (right-hand side).

3. Remove the bulb cover, by turning it counterclockwise.

Left-hand side

Install the bulb cover.

the bulb to the headlight

7. To install assembly, turn it clockwise until it clicks. 8. Reconnect the electrical connector. 9. 10. Install (right-hand side). 11. Set the washer tank to the original place and secure it by clip (left-hand side).

the air intake duct with clips

! High beam light bulbs

4. Disconnect from the bulb.

the electrical connector

Maintenance and service 11-51

Left-hand side

2. Use a screwdriver to remove the secured clip of the washer tank. To make it easy to access the bulb, move the washer tank to the horizontal direction (left-hand side).

Right-hand side

1. Use a screwdriver to undo the clips on the air intake duct, then remove the air intake duct (right-hand side).

5. Remove the bulb from the headlight assembly by turning it counterclockwise. 6. Replace the bulb with a new one. At this time, do not touch the bulb surface.

– CONTINUED –

11-52 Maintenance and service

3. Disconnect from the bulb.

the electrical connector

4. Remove the bulb from the headlight assembly by turning it counterclockwise. 5. Replace the bulb with new one. At this time, use care not to touch the bulb surface. 6. To install assembly, turn it clockwise until it clicks. 7. Reconnect the electrical connector. 8. (right-hand side). 9. Set the washer tank to the original place and secure it by clip (left-hand side).

the air intake duct with clips

the bulb to the headlight

Install

& Front turn signal light It may be difficult to replace the bulbs. Have the bulbs replaced by your SUBARU dealer if necessary.

& Front fog light (if equipped) It may be difficult to replace the bulbs. Have the bulbs replaced by your SUBARU dealer if necessary.

& Rear combination lights ! 4-door models

1. Remove the clip from the rear trunk trim with a screwdriver. 2. Open the rear portion of the side trunk trim panel.

1) Brake/tail and rear side marker light 2) Rear turn signal light 3) Back-up light

3. Remove the bulb socket from the rear combination light assembly by turning it counterclockwise. 4. Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket and replace it with a new one. 5. Set into the rear the bulb socket combination light assembly and turn it clockwise until it locks. 6. Secure the rear trunk trim panel with the clips.

! 5-door models

vehicle.

Maintenance and service 11-53

1. Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the upper and lower screws that secure the rear combination light assembly.

1) Rear side marker light 2) Rear turn signal light

3. Remove the bulb socket from the rear combination light assembly by turning it counterclockwise. 4. Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket and replace it with a new one. 5. Set into the rear the bulb socket combination light assembly and turn it clockwise until it locks.

6. Put the rear combination light assem- bly into place while aligning the clip with the guide on the vehicle.

2. Slide the rear combination light as- sembly rearward and remove it from the

7. Tighten the upper and lower screws.

– CONTINUED –

11-54 Maintenance and service

& Back-up light (5-door)

2. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove it.

& License plate light

1. Apply a flat-head screwdriver to the light cover as shown in the illustration, and pry the light cover off from the rear gate trim.

3. Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket and replace it with a new one. 4. Install clockwise. 5.

Install the light cover on the rear gate.

the bulb socket by turning it

1. Insert a finger into the right side of the license plate light cover, then press once to the left and pull out to remove the cover.

2. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise

and pull out the socket. 3. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 4. 5. Reinstall the license plate light cover.

Install a new bulb.

& Map light ! Vehicles with moonroof

1. Remove the lens by prying the edge of the lens with a flat-head screwdriver.

Maintenance and service 11-55

! Vehicles without moonroof

2. Turn the bulb until the flat surfaces at its ends are aligned vertically. Pull the bulb straight downward to remove it. 3. Install a new bulb. 4. Reinstall the lens.

1. Remove the lens by prying the edge of the lens with a flat-head screwdriver. 2. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 3. Install a new bulb. 4. Reinstall the lens.

– CONTINUED –

11-56 Maintenance and service

& Dome light and cargo area

light

the lens with a flat-head screwdriver. 2. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 3. Install a new bulb. 4. Reinstall the lens.

& Trunk light

& High mount stop light (4-

door)

Dome light

Cargo area light

1. Remove the lens by prying the edge of

1. Remove the cover by squeezing its sides and pulling it. 2. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 3. Install a new bulb. 4. Reinstall the cover.

1. Remove the high mount stop light cover by prying the edge with a screw- driver. 2. Remove the bulb socket from the high mount stop light assembly by turning it counterclockwise. 3. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 4. Install a new bulb. 5. Reinstall the cover.

& Other bulbs Other bulbs may be difficult to replace. Have the bulbs replaced by your SUBARU dealer if necessary.

Specifications

Specifications ..................................................... 12-2
Dimensions........................................................ 12-2
Engine ............................................................... 12-3
Electrical system................................................ 12-3
Capacities .......................................................... 12-4
Tires .................................................................. 12-5
Wheel alignment ................................................ 12-5

Fuses and circuits .............................................

12-6

Fuse panel located in the passenger

compartment ...................................................

Fuse panel located in the engine

compartment ................................................... Bulb chart........................................................... Vehicle identification .......................................

12-6

12-8
12-9
12-10

12

12-2 Specifications

Specifications

These specifications are subject to change without notice. & Dimensions

Item

Drive system

4-door

5-door

2.5 L non-turbo

2.5 L turbo

2.5 L non-turbo

2.5 L turbo

Except OUTBACK

OUTBACK

Except WRX STI

WRX STI

AWD

in (mm)

Transmission type

AT

MT

AT

MT

AT

MT

AT

Overall length

Overall width

Overall height

Wheel base

Tread

Front

Rear

Ground clearance*1

180.3 (4,580)

58.1 (1,475)

58.9 (1,495)

59.1 (1,500)

6.1 (155)

58.9 (1,495)

*1: Measured with vehicle empty AT: Automatic transmission MT: Manual transmission

68.5 (1,740)

103.1 (2,620)

MT

AT

173.8 (4,415)

MT

MT

70.7 (1,795)

58.3 (1,480)

58.1 (1,475)

58.7 (1,490)

58.9 (1,495)

58.9 (1,495)

59.1 (1,500)

6.3 (160)

6.1 (155)

103.3 (2,625)

60.2 (1,530)

60.6 (1,540)

Specifications 12-3

& Engine

Engine model

Engine type

Displacement cc (cu-in) Bore 6 Stroke in (mm) Compression ratio

Firing order

& Electrical system

Battery type and capacity (5HR)

Alternator

Spark plugs

AT: Automatic transmission MT: Manual transmission

EJ253

(2.5 L, SOHC, non-turbo)

(2.5 L, DOHC, turbo, except WRX STI)

EJ255

EJ257

(2.5 L, DOHC, turbo, WRX STI)

Horizontally opposed, liquid cooled 4 cylinder, 4-stroke gasoline engine

10.0 : 1

MT

AT

Non-turbo models

Turbo models

Non-turbo models

Turbo models

2,457 (150)

3.9 6 3.1 (99.5 6 79.0)

8.4 : 1

1 – 3 – 2 – 4

8.2 : 1

12V-48AH (55D23L)

12V-52AH (65D23L)

12V-90A

12V-110A

FR5AP-11 (NGK) SILFR6A (NGK)

– CONTINUED –

12-4 Specifications

& Capacities

Fuel tank Engine oil

Transmission oil (MT)

5-speed

6-speed

Transmission fluid (AT)

Front differential gear oil (AT)

Rear differential gear oil

Power steering fluid Engine coolant

Non-turbo models

Turbo models except WRX STI

WRX STI

AT: Automatic transmission MT: Manual transmission

WRX STI

Others

MT

AT

MT

AT

MT

16.9 US gal (64 liters, 14.1 Imp gal)

4.2 US qt (4.0 liters, 3.5 Imp qt)

3.7 US qt (3.5 liters, 3.1 Imp qt)

4.3 US qt (4.1 liters, 3.6 Imp qt)

9.8 US qt (9.3 liters, 8.2 Imp qt)

1.3 US qt (1.2 liters, 1.1 Imp qt)

1.1 US qt (1.0 liter, 0.9 Imp qt)

0.8 US qt (0.8 liter, 0.7 Imp qt)

0.7 US qt (0.7 liter, 0.6 Imp qt)

7.2 US qt (6.8 liters, 6.0 Imp qt)

7.1 US qt (6.7 liters, 5.9 Imp qt)

7.9 US qt (7.5 liters, 6.6 Imp qt)

7.8 US qt (7.4 liters, 6.5 Imp qt) 8.1 US qt (7.7 liters, 6.8 Imp qt)

Specifications 12-5

& Tires

Tire size

Wheel size Pressure

Temporary spare tire

P205/55R16 89V

P205/50R17 88V

225/45R17

16 6 61/2 JJ

17 6 7 JJ

235/45R17
17 6 8 JJ

245/40R18
18 6 81/2 J

Front

Rear

Size

Pressure

33 psi (230 kPa, 2.3 kgf/cm2) 32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

T125/70 D17

T135/70 D17

60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2)

& Wheel alignment

Item

4-door

5-door

2.5 L non-turbo

2.5 L turbo

2.5 L non-turbo

2.5 L turbo

Except OUTBACK

OUTBACK

Except WRX STI

WRX STI

Drive system

Toe

Camber

Front

Rear

Front

Rear

–1805’

–0810’ –1815’

AWD

0 in (0 mm)

0 in (0 mm)

–1805’

–0805’

–0810’ –1815’

–0840’ –1835’

12-6 Specifications

Fuses and circuits & Fuse panel located in the passenger compartment

Fuse panel

10

11

12

13

14

Fuse rating Empty

Empty

15A 10A

10A

7.5A

15A

20A

15A

7.5A

7.5A

15A

20A

15A

15

Empty

Circuit

rear

view mirrors

Integrated unit

Front wiper deicer relay

. Door locking . Combination meter . Clock . Remote control . Seat heater relay . Combination meter . Stop light . Power supply (battery) . Automatic transmission . Engine control unit . Accessory power outlet

Front wiper deicer

Turn signal unit

Integrated unit

unit

(center console)

. Position light . Rear combination light

Tail light

(FWD connector AWD AT vehicles)

for

Fuse panel

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

Fuse rating 10A

15A

10A

Empty

10A

7.5A

15A

15A

15A

15A

7.5A

15A

15A

15A

30A

7.5A

Circuit

Illumination

. Seat heaters . Back-up light

Fuse panel

32

33

Fuse rating Empty

7.5A

Circuit

. ABS/Vehicle dynamics

control unit

. Accessory power outlet

(instrument panel)

. Starter relay . Air conditioner . Rear window defogger

relay coil

. Rear wiper . Rear window washer . Audio unit . SRS airbag system . Power window relay . Radiator main fan relay . Blower fan . Blower fan . Auto air conditioner unit

Front wiper

Integrated unit

Fog light

Specifications 12-7

– CONTINUED –

12-8 Specifications

& Fuse panel located in the engine compartment

A) Main fuse

Fuse panel

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

Fuse rating 30A

25A 10A

Circuit

. ABS unit . Vehicle dynamics con-

trol unit . Main fan . Secondary air combina- tion valve (turbo models)

25A

. Sub fan

Empty

Empty

30A 15A

20A

15A

25A

15A

10A

7.5A

15A

. Headlight (low beam) . Headlight (high beam) . Back-up light . Horn . Rear window defogger . Mirror heater . Automatic transmission

Fuel pump

control unit

. Engine control unit

Turn and hazard warn- ing flasher

15A

Tail and illumination re- lay

7.5A

. Alternator

Fuse panel

18

19

Fuse rating 15A

15A

Circuit

Bulb chart

. Headlight (right side) . Headlight (left side)

Description Headlight

Specifications 12-9

Wattage

Bulb No.

Low beam headlight (except WRX STI) 12V-55W

Low beam headlight (WRX STI)

High beam headlight

Front fog light Front turn signal/Front side marker light Rear combination light

Rear turn signal light (4-door) Brake/tail and rear side marker light (4-door) Back-up light (4-door) Rear side marker light (5-door) Rear turn signal light (5-door) Back-up light (5-door)

High mount stop light (4-door) License plate light Trunk room light (4-door) Cargo area light (5-door) Dome light Map light

12V-35W

12V-60W 12V-51W 12V-27/8W

12V-21W 12V-21/5W

12V-16W 12V-5W 12V-21W

12V-21W 12V-21W 12V-5W 12V-5W 12V-5W 12V-8W 12V-8W

H11

D2S

9005 (HB3) 9006 (HB4) 1157NA

(WY21W) 7443 (W21/5W)

921
168
(WY21W)

7440
(P21W) 168 (W5W) W5W –

–

–

12-10 Specifications

Vehicle identification

Tire inflation pressure label

1) Vehicle identification number 2) Emission control label 3) 4) Certification label 5) Vehicle identification number plate 6) Model number label 7)

Fuel label

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

For U.S.A. ........................................................... 13-2
Tire information.................................................. 13-2
Tire labeling ....................................................... 13-2
Recommended tire inflation pressure.................. 13-5
Glossary of tire terminology ............................... 13-6
Tire care – maintenance and safety practices...... 13-7
Vehicle load limit – how to determine.................. 13-8
Determining compatibility of tire and vehicle load capacities ......................................................

13-11

Adverse safety consequences of overloading on handling and stopping and on tires ................ Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit......... Uniform tire quality grading standards .......... Treadwear ....................................................... Traction AA, A, B, C......................................... Temperature A, B, C......................................... Reporting safety defects (U.S.A.) ...................

13-11
13-12
13-12
13-13
13-13
13-13
13-14

13

13-2 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

For U.S.A.

The following information has been compiled according to Code of Federal Regulations “Title 49, Part 575”.

Tire information & Tire labeling Many markings (e.g. Tire size, Tire Identification Number or TIN) are placed on the sidewall of a tire by tire manufacturers. These markings can provide you with useful infor- mation on the tire. ! Tire size Your vehicle comes equipped with P-Metric tire size. It is important to understand the sizing system in selecting the proper tire for your vehicles. Here is a brief review of the tire sizing system with a break- down of its individual elements. ! P Metric With the P-Metric system, Section Width is measured in millimeters. To convert millimeters into inches, divide by 25.4. The Aspect Ratio (Section Height divided by Section Width) helps provide more dimen- sional the tire size.

information about

Example:

(1) P = Certain tire type used on light duty vehicles such as passen- ger cars (2) Section Width in millimeters (3) Aspect Ratio (= section height 7 section width). (4) R = Radial Construction (5) Rim diameter in inches ! Load and Speed Rating Descrip-

tions

The load and speed rating descrip- tions will appear following the size designation. facts They provide two important about the number designation is its load index. Sec- ond, the letter designation indicates the tire’s speed rating.

the tire. First,

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-3

Example:

(6) Load Index: A numerical code which specifies the maximum load a tire can carry at the speed indicated by its speed symbol, at maximum inflation pressure. For example, “90” means 1,323 lbs (600 kg), “89” means 1,278 lbs (580
kg).

WARNING

Load indices apply only to the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a load rated tire on any vehicle does not mean the vehicle can be loaded up to the tire’s rated load.

(7) Speed Rating: An alphabetical system describing a tire’s capability to travel at established and prede- termined speeds. For example, “V” means 149 mph (240 km/h)

WARNING

. Speed ratings apply only to the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a speed rated tire on any vehicle does not mean the vehicle can be operated at the tire’s rated speed.

. The speed rating is void if the tires are worn out, da- maged, repaired, retreaded, or otherwise altered from their original condition. If tires are repaired, re- treaded, or otherwise al- tered, they may not be sui- table for original equipment tire designed loads and speeds.

! Tire Identification Number (TIN) Tire Identification Number (TIN) is marked on the intended outboard sidewall. The TIN is composed of four groups. Here is a brief review of the TIN with a breakdown of its individual elements.

(1) Manufacturer’s Identification Mark (2) Tire Size (3) Tire Type Code (4) Date of Manufacture The first two figures identify the week, starting with “01” to represent the first full week of the calendar year; the second two figures repre- sent the year. For example, 0101
means the 1st week of 2001. ! Other markings The following makings are also placed on the sidewall. ! Maximum permissible inflation

pressure

The maximum cold inflation pres- sure to which this tire may be “300 kPa inflated. For example, (44 PSI) MAX. PRESS”

– CONTINUED –

13-4 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

! Maximum load rating The load rating at the maximum permissible weight load for this tire. For example, “MAX. LOAD 580 kg (1279 LBS) @ 300 kPa (44 PSI) MAX. PRESS.”

STEEL + 2 POLYESTER SIDE- WALL 2 POLYESTER” ! Uniform Tire Quality Grading

(UTQG)

For details, refer to “Uniform tire quality grading standards” F13-12.

WARNING

Maximum load rating applies only to the tire, not to the vehicle. Putting a load rated tire on any vehicle does not mean the vehicle can be loaded up to the tire’s rated load.

! Construction type Applicable construction of this tire. For example, “TUBELESS STEEL BELTED RADIAL” ! Construction The generic name of each cord material used in the plies (both sidewall and tread area) of this tire. “PLIES: TREAD 2
For example,

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-5

& Recommended tire inflation pressure ! Recommended cold tire inflation pressure Recommended cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle’s tires is as follows:

Tire size Wheel size Pressure

Temporary spare tire

Front Rear Size Pressure

P205/55R16 89V P205/50R17 88V 225/45R17

16 6 61/2 JJ

17 6 7 JJ

235/45R17
17 6 8 JJ

245/40R18
18 6 81/2 J

33 psi (230 kPa, 2.3 kgf/cm2) 32 psi (220 kPa, 2.2 kgf/cm2)

T125/70 D17

T135/70 D17

60 psi (420 kPa, 4.2 kgf/cm2)

– CONTINUED –

13-6 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

! Vehicle placard

The vehicle placard is affixed to the driver’s side B-pillar. Example:

The vehicle placard shows original tire size, recommended cold tire inflation pressure on each tire at maximum loaded vehicle weight, seating capacity and loading infor- mation. ! Adverse safety consequences

of under-inflation

Driving at high speeds with exces- sively low tire pressures can cause the tires to flex severely and to rapidly become hot. A sharp in- crease in temperature could cause tread separation, and failure of the tire(s). Possible resulting loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident. ! Measuring and adjusting air

pressure to achieve proper in- flation

Check and, if necessary, adjust the pressure of each tire (including the spare) at least once a month and before any long journey. Check the tire pressures when the tires are cold. Use a pressure gauge to adjust the tire pressures to the

specific values. Driving even a short distance warms up the tires and increases the tire pressures. Also, the tire pressures are affected by the outside temperature. is best to check tire pressure out- doors before driving the vehicle. When a tire becomes warm, the air inside it expands, causing the tire pressure to increase. Be careful not to mistakenly release air from a warm tire to reduce its pressure.

It

& Glossary of tire terminology . Cold tire pressure The pressure in a tire that has been driven less than 1 mile or has been standing for three hours or more. . Maximum inflation pressure The maximum cold inflation pres- sure to which a tire may be inflated. . Recommended inflation pres- sure The cold inflation pressure recom- mended by a vehicle manufacturer. . Intended outboard sidewall

(1) The sidewall that contains a

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-7

whitewall, bears white lettering or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same molding on the other side- wall of the tire, or (2) The outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that must al- ways face outward when mount- ing on a vehicle. . Accessory weight The combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of leather seats and cross bars to the extent that these items are available as f a c t o r y - i n s t a l l e d e q u i p m e n t (whether installed or not). . Curb weight The weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant and air conditioning. . Maximum loaded vehicle weight The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight and

floor mats,

production options weight. . Normal occupant weight 150 lbs (68 kg) times the number of occupants (3 occupants). . Occupant distribution Distribution of occupants in a vehi- cle, 2 in front, 1 in rear seat. . Production options weight The combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg) in excess of those standards items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or acces- sory weight. . Vehicle capacity weight The total weight of cargo, luggage and occupants that can be added to the vehicle. . Vehicle maximum load on a tire Load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing by two. . Vehicle normal load on a tire Load on an individual

tire that is

determined by distributing to each axle its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and normal oc- cupant weight and dividing by two. & Tire care – maintenance and

safety practices

. Check on a daily basis that the tires are free from serious damage, nails, and stones. At the same time, check the tires for abnormal wear. Inspect the tire tread regularly and replace the tires before their tread wear indicators become visi- ble. When a tire’s tread wear indicator becomes visible, the tire is worn beyond the acceptable limit and must be replaced immediately. With a tire in this condition, driving at even low speeds in wet weather can cause the vehicle to hydro- plane. Possible resulting loss of vehicle control can lead to an accident. . To maximize the life of each tire and ensure that the tires wear to rotate the uniformly,

is best

it

– CONTINUED –

13-8 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

tires every 7,500 miles (12,000 km). Rotating the tires involves switch- ing the front and rear tires on the right-hand side of the vehicle and similarly switching the front and rear tires on the left-hand side of the vehicle. (Each tire must be kept on its original side of the vehicle.) Replace any damaged or unevenly worn tires at the time of rotation. After tire rotation, adjust the tire pressures and make sure the wheel nuts are correctly tightened. A tightening torque specification and a tightening sequence specification for the wheel nuts can be found in “Flat tires” F9-4. & Vehicle load limit – how to

determine

The load capacity of your vehicle is determined by weight, not by avail- able cargo space. The load limit of your vehicle is shown on the vehicle placard attached to the driver’s side B-pillar. Locate the “The combined weight statement

of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your vehicle’s placard. The vehicle placard also shows seating capacity of your vehicle. The total load capacity includes the total weight of driver and all pas- sengers and their belongings, any cargo, any optional equipment such as a trailer hitch, roof rack or bike carrier, etc., and the tongue load of a trailer. Therefore cargo capacity can be calculated by the following method. Cargo capacity = Load limit − (total weight of occupants + total weight of optional equipment + tongue load of a trailer (if applicable))

For information about vehicle load- ing, refer to “Loading your vehicle” F8-12. NOTE Your vehicle is neither designed nor intended to be used for trailer towing. Therefore, never

tow a trailer with your vehicle. ! Calculating total and load ca- pacities varying seating con- figurations

Calculate the available load capa- city as shown in the following examples:

Example 1A

the Vehicle capacity weight of vehicle is 900 lbs (408 kg), which is indicated on the vehicle placard with the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed 900 lbs or 408 kg”.

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-9

Example 1B

2. Calculate the available load ca- pacity.

3. The total weight now exceeds the capacity weight by 92 lbs (42
kg), so the cargo weight must be reduced by 92 lbs (42 kg) or more.

Example 2A

For example, if a person weighing 176 lbs (80 kg) now enters the same vehicle (bringing the number of occupants to two), the calcula- tions are as follows: 1. Calculate the total weight.

For example, if the vehicle has one occupant weighing 154 lbs (70 kg) plus cargo weighing 662 lbs (300
kg). 1. Calculate the total weight.

2. Calculate the available load ca- pacity by subtracting the total weight from the vehicle capacity weight of 900 lbs (408 kg).

3. The result of step 2 shows that a further 84 lbs (38 kg) of cargo can be carried.

the Vehicle capacity weight of vehicle is 900 lbs (408 kg), which is indicated on the vehicle placard – CONTINUED –

13-10 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

with the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed 408 kg or 900 lbs”. For example, the vehicle has one occupant weighing 165 lbs (75 kg) plus cargo weighing 375 lbs (170
kg). In addition, the vehicle is fitted with a trailer hitch weighing 22 lbs (10 kg), to which is attached a trailer weighing 1,764 lbs (800 kg). 10% of the trailer weight is applied to the trailer tongue (i.e. Tongue load = 176 lbs (80 kg)). 1. Calculate the total weight.

2. Calculate the available load ca- pacity.

Example 2B

3. The result of step 2 shows that a further 162 lbs (73 kg) of cargo can be carried.

NOTE Your vehicle is neither designed nor intended to be used for trailer towing. Therefore, never tow a trailer with your vehicle.

For example, if a person weighing 143 lbs (65 kg) and a child weighing 40 lbs (18 kg) now enter the same vehicle (bringing the number of occupants to three), and a child restraint system weighing 11 lbs (5
kg) is installed in the vehicle for the child to use, the calculations are as follows: 1. Calculate the total weight.

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-11

NOTE Your vehicle is neither designed nor intended to be used for trailer towing. Therefore, never tow a trailer with your vehicle. & Determining compatibility of tire and vehicle load capaci- ties

two rear

four tires’ maximum The sum of load ratings must exceed the max- imum loaded vehicle weight (“GVWR”). In addition, sum of the maximum load ratings of two front tires and of tires must exceed each axle’s maximum loaded capacity (“GAWR”). Original equipment tires are designed to fulfill those conditions. The maximum loaded vehicle weight is referred to Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). And each axle’s maximum loaded capacity is referred to Gross Axle Weight Rat- ing (GAWR). The GVWR and each axle’s GAWR are shown on the vehicle certification label affixed to the driver’s door.

The GVWR and front and rear GAWRs are determined by not only the maximum load rating of tires but also loaded capacities of the vehi- cle’s suspension, axles and other parts of the body. Therefore, the vehicle cannot necessarily be loaded up to the tire’s maximum load rating on the tire sidewall.

this means that

& Adverse safety conse-

quences of overloading on handling and stopping and on tires

Overloading could affect vehicle handling, stopping distance, and vehicle and tire performance in the following ways. This could lead to an accident and possibly result in severe personal injury. . Vehicle stability will deteriorate. . Heavy and/or high-mounted loads could increase the risk of rollover. . Stopping distance will increase. . Brakes could overheat and fail.

– CONTINUED –

2. Calculate the available load ca- pacity.

3. The total weight now exceeds the capacity weight by 32 lbs (15
kg), so the cargo weight must be reduced by 32 lbs (15 kg) or more.

13-12 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

. Suspension, bearings, axles and other body parts could break or experience accelerated wear that will shorten vehicle life. . Tires could fail. . Tread separation could occur. . Tire could separate from its rim. & Steps for Determining Cor-

rect Load Limit

1. Locate the statement “The com- bined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX pounds” on your vehicle’s placard. 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds. 4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For exam- the “XXX” amount equals ple, 1,400 lbs (635 kg) and there will be five- 150 lbs (68 kg) passengers in your vehicle, the amount of avail-

if

able cargo and luggage load capa- city is 650 lbs. (1,400 − 750 (5 6
150) = 650 lbs) 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calcu- lated in Step 4. If your vehicle will be towing a 6. trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your ve- hicle.

NOTE Your vehicle is neither designed nor intended to be used for trailer towing. Therefore, never tow a trailer with your vehicle.

Uniform tire quality grading standards

This information indicates the rela- tive performance of passenger car tires in the area of treadwear, traction, and temperature resis- tance. This is to aid the consumer in making an informed choice in the purchase of tires. Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall be- tween tread shoulder and maxi- mum section width. For example:

Treadwear 200 Traction AA Tem- perature A

The quality grades apply to new pneumatic tires for use on passen- ger cars. However, they do not apply to deep tread, winter type snow tires, space-saver or tempor- ary use spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of 12 inches or less, or to some limited produc- tion tires.

All passenger car tires must con-

Consumer information and Reporting safety defects 13-13

form to Federal Safety Require- ments in addition to these grades.

& Treadwear The treadwear grade is a compara- tive rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under con- trolled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150
would wear one and one-half (1- 1/2) times as well on the govern- ment 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 AA, A, B, C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on spe-

cified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction perfor- mance.

WARNING

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight- ahead braking traction tests, and does not include accel- eration, cornering, hydroplan- ing, or peak traction charac- teristics.

& Temperature A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled con- ditions on a specified indoor labora- tory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The

tires must meet under

grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Stan- dards No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of perfor- mance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

WARNING

The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or ex- cessive loading, either sepa- rately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possi- ble tire failure.

13-14 Consumer information and Reporting safety defects

DC 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor ve- hicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov.

Reporting safety defects (U.S.A.)

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a