How to Inspect Tires on a Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is a compact pick-up truck, great for people who need a pick-up truck but don't want a large one. Checking the tires in a Toyota Tacoma every 3,000 miles is an important safety check that prevents accidents and improves gas mileage. And it only takes a few minutes.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Tire pressure gauge

1. • 1

     Check your tires' pressure (PSI) by inserting a tire pressure gauge into the tire's valve stem (the nozzle on the side of the tire). Press the gauge down until you don't hear a hiss of air. Note the reading. Check the sticker on the driver's side door to find out what the maximum PSI should be. Newer models of the Toyota Tacoma have a low tire pressure indicator on the dash.

   • 2

     Add or subtract air to your tires if your PSI indicates it. You can add air with a pump at a gas station. To subtract air, press on the metal stem in the valve. Once you add or subtract air from tires, don't forget to double-check the PSI again.

   • 3

     Inspect the tires for tire wear bars-bars in the tires across the treads. If you see these, the tread has worn down and tire needs replacing. You can also inspect tread by taking a penny and inserting it into the tire groove with Lincoln's head upside-down. If you see all of Lincoln's head, the tire's too worn and needs replacing.

   • 4

     Look at the tires for damage, cracking, bulges or nails and other objects embedded in the tires. These can cause a flat tire. Replace or repair tires as needed.

   • 5

     Verify the tires are wearing evenly. Uneven wear on the edges or in the middle of the tires may indicate over or under inflation. If you notice feathering or odd wear along the edges, the tires may need replacement and realignment. Consider rotating the tires if you notice wear in the same spots on all the tires.

   • 6

     Replace any needed tires with the correct size tires. Go to GoodyearTires to search for the correct size tires for your Toyota Tacoma.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the tire pressure when it's cold outside and you haven't used the car for a few hours.

• Check all the tires, including the spare.

• Never inflate your tires beyond the PSI noted on the sticker in your SUV.

• Do not look on the wall of the tire for the correct PSI. Always go with your vehicle owner manual's recommendations.