How to Inspect for Tire Defects in a Toyota Corolla
A tire inspection is important whenever you buy a Toyota Corolla--one of the most popular compacts in the U.S.--or service the one you already own. Because tire defects are a serious safety hazard, perform these tests monthly and at the beginning of every extended drive, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Regular tire checks protect both you and other drivers from accidents, injury and even death.
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Instructions
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Learn about common tire defects. Damaged inner liners, cracked or dried edges, bubbles, leaks and tread separation are all serious warning signs. If you see any of these problems when car shopping for a new or used Corolla, make sure the dealership replaces the damaged tire before you buy the car.
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Check the pressure of each tire with a tire gauge. For most Toyota Corolla models, the optimal pressure is 30psi. At each routine inspection, fill the tire with air if it's lower than this amount and if you hear a hissing sound or the same tire has low pressure consistently, there may be a leak. See "How to Use a Tire Pressure Gauge" under Related eHows.
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Examine each tire separately for other defects by removing the tire to get the best view. Loosen each lug nut and then raise up that part of the vehicle with a car jack. Finally, take off the nuts and detach the tire. Repeat Steps 3-7 for the other three tires, once you complete Steps 4-7 for the first tire.
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Inspect the tire's tread and sidewalls. If the tread is pulling away from the main body (separated) or the sidewall has a bulge, your tire is a prime candidate for blowouts and rollovers, which causes accidents.
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Look at the edges and inner liner. A dry or cracked edge indicates dry rot, while a separated inner liner means the tire is defective.
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Perform the "bubble test" for tire leaks. Besides a hissing sound and consistent pressure loss, you can also check for them visually. Inflate the tire and spray soapy water on it. If you see bubbling, there's an air leak.
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Put the tire back on after you've inspected it. Tighten the lug nuts with the wrench and lower the vehicle using the car jack.
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Tips & Warnings
Replace your tires right away, if they show any signs which might cause blowouts.
Consult your owner's manual for the correct tire size, if you need to replace one. The wheel size for all three 2005 Corolla models, for instance, is 5.5-JJ.
Don't buy a new Corolla unless all four tires are the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) brand. For example, the OEM type for the 2005 S and LE models is P195/65R15.
