The Door Jamb Sticker: Your Tire Bible
Where to find the official manufacturer tire sticker
Every vehicle comes with a tire information sticker, and knowing where to find it can save you time and money. This sticker contains crucial information about your tires.
Where to Find the Door Jamb Sticker
The tire information sticker is typically located on:
- Driver's side door jamb - Most common location
- Glove compartment door - Sometimes placed here
- Fuel filler door - Less common but possible
Why the Driver's Door?
The driver's door jamb is the perfect location because:
- It's easily accessible when checking tire pressure
- It's protected from weather and road debris
- It's visible when the door is open
What Information Does It Contain?
Tire Size
The recommended tire size for your vehicle, usually something like "P225/60R16" or "265/70R17".
Tire Pressure
The recommended cold tire pressure, typically 30-35 PSI for most vehicles.
Load Index and Speed Rating
Advanced specifications for maximum load and speed capabilities.
Original Equipment
The tire brand and model that came with your vehicle from the factory.
Understanding the Information
Cold Tire Pressure
Always check pressure when tires are "cold" - meaning they haven't been driven for at least 3 hours or driven more than 1 mile at moderate speed.
Load Capacity
This tells you the maximum weight each tire can safely carry. Never exceed this limit.
Tire Type
"P" prefix means passenger car tire, "LT" means light truck, "T" means temporary spare.
When to Use This Information
Refer to your door jamb sticker when:
- Checking tire pressure - Monthly maintenance
- Replacing tires - Ensure correct size and type
- Adding load - Verify you're not exceeding capacity
- Towing - Check if you need different tires
Important Notes
Remember these key points:
- The door jamb sticker shows maximums - You can sometimes use lower pressure for better ride comfort
- All tires should be inflated to the same pressure - Even if they have different load ratings
- This is manufacturer recommended - Your driving conditions might require adjustments
Keep It Readable
Over time, the door jamb sticker can fade or become dirty. Consider:
- Keeping the door jamb clean
- Taking a photo of the sticker for reference
- Recording the information in your owner's manual
Your door jamb sticker is the authoritative source for tire information for your specific vehicle. Make it a habit to check it regularly!