Buying new tires is an investment in your vehicle’s safety, performance, and peace of mind. But many drivers don’t realize that simply installing new tires isn’t enough. Proper care and maintenance are essential to make sure you get the most life and value from them.
Here are five key services that help protect your tire investment:
1. Tire Rotations
Tires wear down over time, but they don’t wear evenly. Front tires usually wear faster because they handle more of the steering and braking. Rotating your tires (moving them from one position to another) every 5,000 to 7,000 miles helps them wear more evenly, extending their lifespan and improving your ride.
2. Wheel Alignments
If your wheels aren’t properly aligned, your tires can wear unevenly and much faster. You might also notice your car pulling to one side or a crooked steering wheel. A wheel alignment ensures that your tires meet the road at the correct angle, which means safer handling, better gas mileage, and longer tire life.
3. Tire Balancing
When tires are mounted onto wheels, small weight differences can cause vibration, especially at higher speeds. Tire balancing corrects this by adjusting the weight distribution around the tire and wheel. It results in a smoother ride and reduces stress on suspension components, helping your tires last longer.
4. Air Pressure Checks
Underinflated or overinflated tires wear unevenly and can be dangerous. Too little air leads to poor gas mileage and can cause a tire to overheat. Too much air can make tires more prone to damage from potholes. It’s smart to check your pressure monthly.
5. Visual Inspections
A quick look at your tires can tell you a lot. Cracks, bulges, or objects stuck in the tread are red flags. If you’re not sure what to look for, just swing by. If you aren’t sure, most auto techs will give your tires a free visual check to help spot problems early.
There is a lot riding on your tires, in terms of money, and more importantly the safety of you and your passengers. Take time to take care of your tires.
