Tyre pressures for different make of tyres

[Birdster]

So I had new tyres fitted to the Astra G (02 plate MK4). 185/65/15 88T's

Always run 32psi front, 28 psi rear.

However tyre fitter recommended running the fronts at 32psi and the rears at 30psi due to being a soft tyre.

They are not the original Michelins that come with the car, but Continentals.

I found the car a bit vague in feel so dropped them to what they normally are and I'm much happier.

These are normal unloaded, driver only pressures.

I'm guessing this was to reduce wear, but I prefer a more compliant ride.

Anyone in the know able to comment and is there something I'm missing?

I say to stick with what I normally use, but thought I'd post the question if anyone has changed from the original pressures due to changing tyre make and model?

[MJK 24]

The S2 Elise was launched with Lotus specific Bridgestones. Pressures were advised at 26f and 27.5r.

The new cars are now delivered with Yokohama tyres (same size) and owners of early S2 Elise are advised 24f and 26r if running these tyres.

I've always stuck with the manufacturers recommendation for an unloaded car for all my vehicles and I've never suffered any irregular handling or wear patterns.

[Birdster]

Thanks. That's what I've always done. I'll just carry on as I was. That couple of extra psi really made a difference. Which I didn't expect with such a car.

[havoc]

If you're moving away from the OE tyre, then it sometimes is worth experimenting with pressures, as some sidewalls are much squidgier* than others, so need higher psi for a given level of responsiveness and ride quality.

E.g. S2000 - OE Bridgestones were very stiff. Alternate Toyos were a fair bit softer, car felt less precise at standard pressures.


* technical term. ;o)