Neglecting the tires on your vehicle can cost you in the quality of your ride, your safety and your wallet. Regular inspection is key to catching potential issues early on, particularly if you frequently encounter potholes or wet weather conditions.
Your tires are the only part of the car that has direct contact with the road and affects its handling, braking and safety. NationalTransportation Safety Board (NTSB) data suggests that at least 33,000 crashes each year in the U.S. are attributable to tire issues in general, with 2,000 of them specifically involving tire blowouts.
“Consumers should walk around their vehicles daily just to complete a visual inspection every morning and have the tires rotated at least twice a year,” says Reco Bland, Sr., Manager of Tubel’s Complete Auto Care on Jacksonville’s Westside. He also notes that knowing the age of your tires is important. “Check the production date on the sidewall of the tire. Even if they were bought this year the tires may have been made last year. The date is always right after the DOT, i.e. 3022 which is the 30th week in 2022. Keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear during visual inspections.
Inflation Inspection
Any tire loses air over time, usually 1-2 psi per month. Cool weather speeds things up. Tires lose an additional 1 psi with every 10°F drop in temperature. Proper tire inflation not only extends tire life but also contributes to better gas mileage.
“The dangers of over-inflated tires are many but first and foremost you will lose traction and the tire can blow out. This will also cause the tire to wear the center face of the tire quickly,”says Bland.
Tire Maintenance Basics
While some tire maintenance tasks require professional expertise, understanding them empowers you when dealing with repair providers.
Tire Rotation: Uneven wear patterns demand tire rotation every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.
Tire Balancing: Ensures even wear and extends tire life; balance newly installed tires and address vibrations promptly.
Wheel Alignment: Essential for even tire wear, proper handling and fuel efficiency. Check alignment when installing new tires or if you notice unusual steering behavior.
A few minutes of tire TLC each month can enhance your safety and
vehicle’s performance and prolong your tire life.