General information
1. Tire sizes approved for installation on the models described in this manual and tire pressure ratings for front and rear wheels are shown in Specifications to the head «Controls and methods of operation». A model specific air pressure rating plate is affixed to the inside of the fuel filler cap. Tires of the same size, of the same design, with the same tread pattern and of the same manufacturer must be installed on one axle of the vehicle. The compilers of this manual strongly recommend that, if necessary, replace the entire set of tires at the same time.
Tire designation
Example: 155/80 R 13 79 T
- 155 - Tire width in mm
- 80 - Cross section ratio in % (tire cross-sectional height is 65% of the width)
- R - Radial design (Radial)
- 13 - Disc diameter in inches
- 79 - Load rating (for example: 79 corresponds to 437 kg)
- T - Designation of the permissible maximum speed (decoding of letter designations is given in the Specifications)
2. Tires of the most optimal standard size for a particular model are installed by the manufacturer. Before installing tires of a different size on a car, it is imperative to get advice from Opel service station specialists. Please be aware that the installation of other tires may result in a change in handling characteristics, braking properties and the functioning of the vehicle's electronic motion control systems.
Note: When using tires of a different size, it may be necessary to reprogram the electronic speedometer and some other electronic systems. Don't forget to change the tire pressure rating plate.
3. When using tires with a directional tread pattern, when installing them, it is necessary to ensure that the direction of the pattern coincides with the direction of movement of the car. As a rule, the direction of rotation is indicated by a special symbol (e.g. arrow) on the sidewall of the tire.
4. Some types of tires have protective thickenings around the entire perimeter of the disc, designed to protect alloy wheels from damage. When installing these tires on conventional steel rims, only Opel branded protective/decorative caps may be used.
5. Some models may be equipped with a special compact type wheel or a tire repair kit instead of a full-size spare wheel. Remember that the compact type wheel is only meant to be able to get to the nearest service station - repair the damaged wheel and replace it as soon as possible.
Note: Similar requirements apply when using a spare wheel with a summer tire instead of a wheel with a winter tire. When using tires with a directional tread pattern, as soon as possible (if necessary) remount the tire so that the direction of the tread pattern matches the direction of travel.
7. When installing wheels with winter tires on a car, they must fully comply with the design, size and load capacity of the wheels being replaced (see Specifications to the head «Controls and methods of operation»). It is allowed to install only front or only rear wheels with winter tires, but the greatest effect is the replacement of the entire set of tires - when driving on snowy or slippery roads, winter tires have better grip and traction characteristics.
Attention: The maximum permissible speed for winter tires is less than for summer tires - follow the recommendations of the tire manufacturers and the requirements of the Road Traffic Regulations (SDA)!
8. If necessary, front (leading) vehicle wheels can be fitted with snow chains. The chains must match the size of the tires, tightly and securely fastened to them. After installing the chains, it is necessary to remove the extra links in order to avoid damage to the body surfaces during the rotation of the wheels - the car must be driven at low speeds up to 50 km / h. If the caps of the steel discs are in contact with the chain links, the caps should be removed. The authors of this manual recommend the use of Opel-approved small-link snow chains, which, together with the chain link, do not exceed a height of 15 mm on the running surface and on the inside of the tyre. Snow chains are used when driving on heavily snowy road surfaces and are not effective on dry roads, in addition, it can lead to chain breakage.
Note: Local laws may prohibit the use of chains - check with your competent local authority in advance for current regulations.
Attention: For emergency wheel (compact type) and for tire sizes 185/55 R 15, 185/60 R 15, 195/45 R 16 and 205/40 R 17 snow chains must not be fitted! If it is necessary to continue driving with snow chains when the front tire is punctured, the compact type wheel should be installed on the rear axle and the rear wheel on the front axle.
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