It goes without saying that it is important to properly maintain a vehicle. Not only does it increase the overall life of the vehicle, it fills the owner with confidence knowing that the vehicle is well-kept. With that said, one of the most crucial parts of a vehicle is its tires. The four tips below will help keep your tires in good shape and ensure that they last until its advertised lifespan.
1. Tire Pressure
One of the most overlooked vehicle care tests is checking the tire pressure. When tires aren’t properly or evenly inflated it can affect multiple aspects of the driving experience. Dipping gas mileage, poor handling and uneven tire wear can occur if you don’t check your tire pressure often – at least every two weeks. Buy a tire pressure gauge and consult your vehicle’s manual for you tires’ proper inflation rate, and make sure your tires stay there.
2. Balance and Rotation
It is vital to balance and rotate the tires, yet many drivers go without doing this either. Tires suffer from damage when they gain exposure to several road conditions, and one side of the tire may change. Rotating the tires on a frequent basis – every 12,000 miles – will allow the tires to wear equally, increasing the longevity of the tires. Maintaining tire balance will keep your vehicle running smoothly at highway speeds.
3. Visual Inspection
Many drivers do not take the time to inspect their vehicles. We sometimes get so busy that months go by before we notice a scratch on the rear passenger-side door. A quick visual inspection every couple of weeks can keep you up-to-date on the condition of your vehicle’s tires. The last thing anyone wants to do is drive on a bald tire. Not only is it unsightly, it’s also unsafe.
4. Talk to a Professional
As with any issue you experience with your vehicle, if there is something you are unsure of or need help with, you can always go to a professional. When it comes to your tires, no issue is too small to seek help. Tires play a crucial role in the overall performance of a vehicle. Something that goes overlooked not only could decrease the longevity of your tires, but it could also be a safety hazard.
The four tips above will help drivers stay smart and stay safe in the heavy driving season of summer.
