Actually I run several psi less! The HHR rides pretty rough with the specified pressure. It's a much smoother ride with slightly lowered pressure. Running higher pressures will cause more hydroplaning as well.

 

Actually the opposite is true.

Read what the experts at Tire Rack have to say HERE.

 

How long have those "Experts" been in the tire industry?

Depends on how you classify "low pressure" and "high pressure."

"Low" pressures under 25psi will hydroplane.

"High" pressures over 45 will hydroplane.

A "safe" range for most passenger cars is between 26-40psi - depending on vehicle weight.

 

27 years. I personally trust them.

 

Shouldn't the tire pressures take into consideration the geographic location of the vehicle? I would think that things such as climate, altitude, general road conditions and driving habits mighy necessitate some variation from a set standard PSI.

 

I 2nd that... I trust their opinions as well.
As for the HHR handling- I too noticed a lot of sway (boat-ie-ness) at highway speeds or with high winds. Lowering (w/GL's, without the swaybar), to me, seemed to eliminate the majority of this trait. I really haven't experienced what you would say is bad traction (rain, snow, etc...) due to the fact that I was used to driving a lowered Mustang GT YEAR ROUND in Michigan! By comparioson, the HHR (IMO) handles like a dream.

 

the correct tire pressures are located on the drivers door stickers. this is what the tire makers and the veh manufacurers have decided is best for that tire on that veh. lower pressures tend to help in wet conditions 1-2 pounds lower. higher pressures tend to help in slick conditions. m2c

 

I think its more of a person preferance... I contiually run my front tires at around 14 psi for the Drag Slick look/performance for those red light races to speedlimit and my rears around 60 psi so I can keep the tread in the rear at a minimum touching the ground. It make the car faster! Besides, with sooOOoo many free ways and straight roads around here WHO needs to turn? Yeah BABY!

 

I changed to the 17" wheels with a different tire (kumho asx). How can I find out the proper weight?

after reading that article (thanks) I think a few extra psi would be beneficial in New England rain...does the same apply to snow?

 

teech, the factory sticker for the 17's calls for 35 psi, F&R.

The Kuhmo ASX is a great tire for the bucks, great traction dry or wet, but not rated well for snow (look on Tire Rack for tests and feedback). I've got the same tire in an 18" and love 'em.

The best bet for those in snow areas is a narrower "winter only" tire on a spare set of wheels. Those that live in those areas can attest to that.