996 tire pressures - reality?

[NutmegCarrera]

Hi
New owner of a 996 here.
I see the published tire pressures as recommended by porsche ate well into the 40+ psi range.

Previous owner had car maintained by a reputable shop in the LA area, and I see the pressures are set (as received) in the 36 front / 40 rear range.

Can anyone give insight into current or conventional wisdom about pressures in this vintage car?

Stock 18" tires on a C4S here.

I have heard that there is more "tire noise" in the 996, but would like to understand the factors before I start messing with anything.

Thanks, and hope to not be opening a can of worms here.

[Dmitry at Pelican Parts]

Hello and congrats on the new ride! Our forum members will chime in regards to the proper tire pressure. I'm attaching a link to our site's DIY tech articles on the 996 platform to help you get better acquainted with the new car and as a guide to future maintenance and repairs.

Porsche 911 (1998-2012) Technical Articles - Porsche 996 & Porsche 997 - Pelican Parts

[racer]

What does the owners manual say? or the decal in the door jam? My boxster was 29/36 and a 911 is a little heavier, so near 40 rear is reasonable.

tire pressures are usually based on desired ride characteristics and performance. Given the 18" wheels and likely small sidewalls, the higher pressures help protect as well as impact ride quality.

Do you think the pressures are overly high or low?

[NutmegCarrera]

I'm going from memory - but it's something like 44.
I read something about tire noise on the 996 and 997
I know my wife's Audi Q7 is pretty high - but not that high.

Just looking for real world experience and conventional wisdom.

But mainly, because the prior shop was at a different pressure than listed on the placard.

I'm thinking there is something more there....

[tonythetarga]

You need to identify your tires. Are they N spec? Cold pressures for an N spec tire is 36f and 44r

[NutmegCarrera]

Will check and post over weekend.

[bob deluke]

Tony is correct. Pop hood (frunk), there is a decal near the front of the hood stating tire pressure for 17&18 inch rims. I have 18 inch rims, 44 psi rear, 36 psi front on my 99 cab.

[NutmegCarrera]

Thanks
Consensus seems that PO was low.
Will adjust.
Didn't know the "N-spec" detail.

[tonythetarga]

Check date stamp on tires too. Tread depth is not the only factor. If tires are over 5 or 6 years old, you might want to look into new rubber. Street speeds not such an issue but spirited driving requires optimal condition of tires, brake fluid and pads.

[NutmegCarrera]

Yes
They have been replaced.
Thanks!

[amazongreenie]

36 front - 44 rear with my 2000 Carrera using Cup III wheels and Michelin Pilot SuperSports for street use.

[BYprodriver]

Originally Posted by bob deluke

Tony is correct. Pop hood (frunk), there is a decal near the front of the hood stating tire pressure for 17&18 inch rims. I have 18 inch rims, 44 psi rear, 36 psi front on my 99 cab.

That is for maximum load (4 people & something in the trunk) With just driver in a new 996 I found 33 front & 34 rear gave best tire wear, comfort & handling.

Tire's make noise as a result of driver's allowing uneven tread wear. If the tire wears evenly it will become quieter with wear.

[NutmegCarrera]

Great info.
Thank you.