I just put on new BF Goodrich Advantage T/A 94H tires on my 1999 Maxima GXE.

The prior set were replaced because they were old AND had some uneven wear related to the tires being underinflated at times -- i.e., worn at both edges of all 4 tires. I thus am really sensitive about getting it right with the tire inflation.

The specified tire pressure for the Maxima 1999 GXE is 29 lbs.

#1) That seems low. Why is the recommended tire pressure set by the car and not by the tire. Is it then the same no matter if I am putting on Goodrich, Michelin, Kumho tires, or putting on H, V, T tires? Does not seem to make sense to me. Would think the tire company would know the best pressure for each tire model.

#2) Am I ok if I fudge a bit and put it at 31 or 32 lbs?

#3) Is everyone out there following the specified tire pressures exactly?


Thanks in advance for the advice, sugggestions.

Brian

 

29 psi has a lot to do with ride quality. As long as your tire can handle higher pressure (40-44max psi is common), then it's ok to be higher than the vehicle recommended. Not too much higher. If you start out cold, no more than 35. 32 is a decent medium.

Keep in mind the majority of reason for an under inflated tire is temp change. When it gets cold, pressure goes down a lot. As the season changes, stay on top of checking the tires, even once a week until the temp stabilizes for the season. As summer approaches, you gotta let air out too...

 

Keep in mind that 29lbs is for the OEM size tire too. A taller tire will need a couple more lbs, and a lower profile a few less. Always safer going a bit higher not lower. Never buy a tire with a load rating less than OEM unless you know the risks. FWIW I've had fronts up to 62lbs at autocrosses and never had one blow or dismount from a rim ever.