Tire Pressure

[[email protected]]

I know beetles should have 16psi air pressure in the front tires and 24psi in the rear for the original bias ply tires, but what should the pressures be for radial tires of the same size 165X15?

[IndianaVWKid]

What does the side of the tire say? Do what the tire says...35 perhaps? Check it out...

[79SuperVert]

I understand that the pressure on the side of the tire is a maximum but NOT the pressure you should use. The tire pressure is determined by the auto maker for each model's particular characteristics. You don't say which year your beetle is but the figures you cite seem awfully low. The inside of the glove compartment door, and the driver's side door jamb, indicate the correct tire pressure on my car (79 Super vert). If there is no data available for radials on the beetle, I think a tire maker would have information on putting radials on a car originally designed for bias ply tires.

[TimGud]

I fill mine up to 32 in the rear and 25 in front but dont know if it is safe or not.Try talking to your tire sales rep. or one of the VW parts dealers who sell tires as well.

[[email protected]]

Putting the max recommended tire pressure in your tires will make your VW ride like crap. The front end will bounce and ride rough. The first post had it about right I run radials on my 58 Ghia cab and run 18 in front and 25-27 in back YMMV.

[keifernet]

YMMV is correct, the original sticker inside the glove box says radials should be run at 18 on the front. and 24-26 in the rear. It makes a hell of a difference, I used to run mine higher for less rolling resistance but you do feel every bump, after rebuild my front end complete it was really promenent.... The type 1 is very light in the front for sure. Also keep in mind tire pressure goes up several pounds. when the tire reaches temp on the road.