Imagine walking out to your car in the morning to go to work only to find a flat tire. Many believe this is preferable to having a tire blow on the highway midway through their commute. However, nobody wants tire problems because they can be costly to fix. If left untreated, tire trouble can harm the vehicle. Many tire problems can be prevented by monitoring and maintaining them. What steps should drivers take to prevent problems?
Tire Pressure
Every person should know the recommended tire pressure for their vehicle. People often refer to the information found in the owner’s manual or on the door frame of their vehicle. However, this information is for the stock tires that came with the vehicle. A different PSI might be needed if the tires have been upgraded. Discuss this with a mechanic when the car goes in for auto repair in Greeley, CO.
For most passenger vehicles, the recommended PSI falls between 30 and 35, so the tire has 30 to 35 pounds of pressure per square inch. However, a mechanic or tire supplier might recommend a different PSI based on the driving patterns. Ask at each visit what PSI is appropriate. Invest in a tire gauge and check the tires routinely to ensure that PSI is maintained. If it is off, visit an air pump to inflate the tires to the correct pressure.
Underinflated tires increase the risk of a blowout. They also reduce the vehicle’s fuel efficiency while extending the distance needed to slow and stop. Underinflating the tires can lead to compromised vehicle handling and premature wear.
Avoid overinflating the tires. Doing so can cause issues similar to those caused by underinflated tires. Overinflated tires reduce the vehicle’s fuel efficiency while compromising vehicle handling. In addition, too much pressure leads to center tread wear and reduces the tire’s lifespan.
Tread Depth
Uneven tread wear should concern every driver. This wear may indicate the need for new tires or alert the driver to another problem with the vehicle, such as unaligned tires. Place a penny in the tread groove with the head facing down. If all of Lincoln’s head is visible, the tread is worn. Invest in new tires to prevent issues.
Sidewall Inspections
Drivers should inspect the sidewalls on their tires routinely. Wear and damage to the sidewalls could lead to tire failure. Check for cracks in the rubber, worn-down spots, or damage to the wheel rim. Poorly aligned tires, careless driving habits, and low tire pressure can damage the sidewalls. Any problems in this area are cause for concern, as thin or cracked sidewalls remain the primary cause of tire blowouts. Replace the tires immediately if the sidewalls are damaged.
People often ask how often they should check their times. Some experts say monthly inspections are good, while others believe people should check their tires whenever they visit a gas station. Talk with a mechanic and see what they recommend, as tires must be in good shape to ensure proper vehicle handling. Basic maintenance increases the likelihood that the tires will last for an extended period with no problems.
