Tire Tips for Keeping Your Tires in Tip-Top Shape
June 23 – June 30 2024 is National Tire Safety Week. While it might not sound as fun as National Smores Day or National Puppy Day, it’s just as important because it’s all about keeping you safe on the road. So, here are some tire tips that’ll keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Check Your Pressure
Of your tires, that is! Maintaining good tire pressure is not easy. You don’t want them to be under or over-inflated. Reference the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. (You may be able to find this in the manual.) Then, use a tire pressure gauge to check it. It’s a good idea to do this once a month. If you’ve been driving in severe cold or hot weather, you should check it then, too. Severe weather can make the pressure fluctuate.
Tread Carefully
Even with consistent maintenance, tires will eventually wear. It can be tricky to know when they need to be replaced. You can use the penny test to check if your tread depth is okay. Stick a penny in the tread with Abe Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.
Rotate, Rotate, Rotate
Rotating your tires ensures that they wear out evenly over time. Irregular or uneven tires can lead to dangerous accidents or expensive repairs. Tires generally need to be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles (or as recommended by the manufacturer).
Stay Aligned
If you ever feel like your vehicle is pulling to one side it might be time to get a wheel alignment. Getting your wheels aligned is like giving your vehicle a chiropractic adjustment – it keeps everything in balance and in harmony.
Take a Good Look
Give your tires some attention with a good once-over. Look for any signs of trouble – cuts, bulges, cracks, or anything that looks out of the ordinary. If something seems off, get it checked out by a professional.
Remember, taking care of your tires isn’t just about avoiding flats or blowouts – it’s about keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road. Houska Automotive is ready to give your tires the attention they need. We offer more than a dozen types of tire service. Contact us to schedule a visit.