Maintaining your tires is an important part of keeping your car in tip-top shape. Neglecting even a simple tire issue can compromise your road safety when not addressed immediately. Here are some ways to take better care of your tires:
Inspect Tires Regularly
A simple assessment of your tires can reveal a lot about their condition. Inspecting them at least once a month allows you to determine if a certain tire needs to be replaced. You may find cracks, scratches, or even nails or screws embedded in your tires. You could also determine if the treads are worn down, which warrants immediate replacement.
Check the Tire Pressure
You can easily check the tire pressure with air pressure gauges. They can be found in gas station convenience stores, auto parts shop, and the car maintenance section of department stores. Check your vehicle’s manual or the label at the driver’s side doorjamb to determine the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure in psi or pounds per square inch.
On each tire, you’ll find a capped valve stem. Simply remove the cap and place the tire gauge over the stem. Read the numbers found on the line of the gauge to determine how much air pressure psi is in that specific tire. You may then fill each tire with air at any paid or free air pump station up to the car manufacturer’s specified psi.
Rotate Tires
Every 10,000 to 20,000 miles, do consider rotating your tires. This ensures each tire wears evenly. Even treads allow for a safe and smooth driving experience. Allowing other parts of the tires to wear prevents uneven treads, which are known to cause decreased handling and traction. Rotating tires prolongs the life of your tires.
Keep a Spare Tire
Having a spare tire can save you in a pinch. Many cars typically come with a spare and a tire replacement kit. You can check your vehicle’s manufacturer manual to know where to find them. You may also get instructions on how to use the kit in your car’s manual.
When you get a flat tire while driving, activate your hazard lights by hitting your car’s emergency signal button before pulling over to a safe side of the road. And then, replace the flat tire with your spare using your tire replacement tools. Remember that your spare tire should never be a permanent replacement, so make sure to get new tires for your ride as soon as possible.
Graham Tire: Trusted Auto Repair Shop in Lincoln, NE!
With these tire maintenance tips, you can have a smooth ride knowing your tires are in good condition. But in case you need assistance, Graham Tire can help. Reach out to our mechanics today to find out more!
