So long as the tires appear inflated and the tread seems to be holding up, motorists feel secure. They receive the most stress of any other part of a car. Firestone alleges that, to increase the car's road traction, Ford encouraged owners to deflate their tires on the Ford Explorer for which the tires were exclusively produced. However, deflating a tire not only produces worse gas mileage, it causes the tire to flex more than usual with each revolution that causes heat build-up above normal levels. Over inflating or overloading can also cause heat buildup.
Speed also contributes to tire wear.
He recommends that owners check the maximum weight rating molded on the tire's sidewall. Car manufacturers may suggest an inflation level, but the tire manufacturer should be considered a greater authority. As for Ford Explorer owners, they need to go to a Firestone representative and turn in those tires. The Ford Explorer is the number one selling SUV in the nation, including among Hispanics. Tire inspections, rotation, and care must become as routine as oil changes.