How well do you maintain your vehicle’s tires?
Basic tire maintenance can help prevent safety issues such as car accidents caused by tire blowouts and sliding off the road due to wet or icy conditions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 646 people died in tire-related crashes in 2023.
Maintaining your tires can also save you money! Proper tire inflation can extend the life of your tires and cut down your fuel costs by as much as 11 cents per gallon.
Keep reading for five tire safety and saving tips.
Proper Tire Pressure
Keeping the right tire pressure is crucial to maintaining your tires. Tire pressure impacts safety, tire durability, and fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure of all tires, including your spare, at least once a month. You should check tire pressure when the vehicle hasn’t been driven for at least three hours.
You’ll find the proper tire inflation pressure on the Tire and Loading Information Label on the edge of your driver’s side door or in your vehicle manual. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle. Your tire might suddenly lose pressure if you bump into a curb when parking or drive over a pothole.
Tire Tread
The tread on your tires provides grip and traction to keep your vehicle from slipping and sliding. This is especially important when conditions are icy or wet. Tires should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch, as they are not safe. Check the tread monthly when checking tire pressure. There are built-in treadwear indicators on tires. These are raised sections between the tread. When the tread is worn down to the same level as the tread indicator, it’s time to replace your tires.
Another way to test your tire tread is to place a penny in the tread. Lincoln’s head should be upside down and facing you. If you see the top of Lincoln’s head, you need new tires.
Tire Balance and Alignment
Getting your tires balanced and aligned keeps your vehicle safer and maximizes the life of your tires. Tire balancing makes sure the wheels rotate properly. New tires should also be balanced when you get them. Wheel alignment prevents your vehicle from veering to the right or left when driving on a straight, level road.
Tire Rotation
Getting your tires rotated can help reduce irregular wear. This increases the longevity of your tires and helps maintain fuel efficiency. Check your manual to find out how often your vehicle’s tires should be rotated and the best rotation pattern. Typically, you’ll need tire rotation every 5,000-8,000 miles or sooner if uneven wear occurs.
If your front and rear tires are different sizes, you might not be able to rotate your tires. Check the manual for more information.
Tire Size
Always purchase new tires that are the same size as your vehicle’s original tires or another size recommended by the manufacturer. Check your manual or the label instead your driver’s side door to find the right size. If you’re uncertain, ask a tire dealer or mechanic to help you find the correct size.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
