Tires are one of the most important aspects of car maintenance. If you don’t care for your tires properly, you’ll wind up spending a lot more money on replacement tires over the life of your vehicle, and could even get in an accident. A few simple tasks to keep your tires in top shape will have you driving safely and confidently.
1. Check Air Pressure Often
When tire pressure is too low or too high, your tires will become damaged over time. In fact, poor tire pressure can even create a safety hazard for you while you’re driving. Over-inflated tires are more likely to pop while you are driving, which has the potential for a serious accident. Underinflated tires will wear down other parts of your car and you’ll lose money on poor gas mileage.
Checking the air pressure in your tires is a simple yet effective way to protect your tires. According to our team, a good tire gauge is only about $5 to $15, but this little tool can really help you avoid major tire issues. Using a tire gauge at least once a month will give you a good idea of what shape your tires are in. When you find your tires are becoming deflated, take them to a trusted auto repair shop to keep them in top performance.
2. Get Tires Rotated
This is an often overlooked maintenance chore that should be prioritized. Having your tires regularly rotated will ensure the tread on the tires wears more evenly. This may not sound like a big deal at first, but the way the tread wears on a tire has a lot to do with the tire’s longevity. When tires wear unevenly, they’ll need to be replaced sooner than normal. It’s a good idea to have your tires rotated every time you get an oil change from an auto mechanic.
3. Drive Smart
Even the way you drive can affect your tires. Driving aggressively, braking hard, and accelerating quickly, will quickly wear out your tires. If you want your tires to last as long as possible, you need to drive moderately, brake softly, and accelerate from a stop slowly. This may not be the most exciting way to drive, but it will save you money on tires and car maintenance in the long run.
Keeping your tires in great shape doesn’t take a lot of knowledge or effort. A few simple tasks will ensure you stay safe on the road. For help with car maintenance and advice on the best tires for your vehicle, reach out to S&S Automotive.