Tire Maintenance: Tips to Stay Safe on the Road

Tire maintenance is often something we don’t think about until there’s a problem. But taking care of your tires can help you stay safe on the road and avoid costly repairs down the line. Your mechanic can help you with most of these things, but there are some things you can do yourself to keep your tires in good shape. 

Each tire has different tread wear indicators or TWIs. These are raised areas in the tread that let you know when to replace your tires. You can also check your tread depth with a penny. Place the penny upside down in the tread. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is less than 2/32″, and it’s time to replace your tires. 

It’s also important to keep an eye on your tire pressure. Check your owner’s manual to see the correct tire pressure for your vehicle. You can find the proper tire pressure for your car by looking on the placard, usually located on the driver’s side door jamb or glove box. You can also find it in your owner’s manual. 

Here are some tips for keeping your tires in top shape:

1. Check your tire pressure regularly

Underinflated tires can lead to a blowout, and overinflated tires can make your car harder to handle. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. You can find the correct tire pressure for your vehicle in the owner’s manual or on the placard inside the driver’s door.

2. Rotate your tires

Tires wear down differently depending on which part of the car they’re on. To help them last longer, rotate them every 5,000 miles or so. It will even out the wear and tear and could help you avoid a blowout.

3. Don’t overload your car

Your tires can only carry so much weight. Check the placard inside the driver’s door to see how much your car can safely carry, and don’t exceed that amount. An overloaded vehicle can cause blowouts and accidents.

4. Inspect your tires regularly

It’s a good idea to inspect your tires every month or so. Look for things like cuts, cracks, bulges, or bald spots. These can all be signs of trouble and should be fixed soon as possible.

5. Keep your tires clean

Tires can get dirty from the road, leading to premature wear. Clean them with soap and water, and get in all the nooks and crannies. You can also use a tire shine product to protect them from the elements.

6. Store your tires properly

Store your tires in a cool, dry place when you’re not using your car. If they’re exposed to too much sun or heat, they can deteriorate more quickly.

7. Get your tires serviced regularly

It’s good to take your car in for regular tire service. It can help identify any potential problems before they become serious.

By following these tips, you can help your tires last longer and keep yourself safe on the road. If you have any questions about tire maintenance, ask your mechanic. They’ll be happy to help you keep your car in top shape.