As the weather warms up and the open road beckons, it’s good to prepare your vehicle for those long spring break or vacation drives. One of the most crucial aspects of vehicle maintenance is tire care. In this month’s blog post, we look at essential tire maintenance to provide a smooth and safe journey on the road.

The Importance of Tire Care

Tire care is vital for several reasons. Firstly, well-maintained tires ensure optimal vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. Secondly, they play a significant role in your vehicle’s safety. Worn-out tires can lead to reduced traction, making it harder to control your vehicle, especially in wet conditions. Lastly, regular tire maintenance can extend their life, saving you money in the long run.

Here are five tasks to keep your tires in top shape:

Regular Inspection

Inspect your tires regularly for any signs of damage like cuts, punctures, or bulges.  These may be evident on the treads, or the sidewalls.  Sidewall damage needs to be addressed right away, as this is a serious safety concern. Pay attention to the tread depth, as it provides your vehicle with the necessary grip. A simple way to check tread depth is the penny test. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head when a penny is inserted into a tread groove, it’s time for a tire change.  You can also purchase an inexpensive tread gauge at your local auto parts store.

Tire Pressure

Tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes – tires will expand under increased temperature conditions and become overinflated.  Under-inflated tires can cause poor fuel efficiency, while over-inflated tires can lead to a harsh ride and increased wear. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for the recommended tire pressure.

Tire Rotation

Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles helps ensure even tire wear, extending their life and improving your vehicle’s performance.

Wheel Alignment and Balancing

Misaligned or unbalanced wheels can lead to uneven tire wear and vibration, affecting your vehicle’s performance and safety. Often you will notice that your tires are out of alignment if your ride is rough, or you wheels pull to one direction while driving.  Have your wheels aligned and tires balanced regularly.  This is a good service to have completed the same time that you are having your tires rotated.

Spare Tire

Don’t forget to check your spare tire. Ensure it’s in good condition and properly inflated so it’s ready when you need it.  Spares vary by vehicle make and model, so make sure that you are familiar with the type of spare in your vehicle, and the tire pressure requirements.  While having your tires serviced, ask for the spare to be inspected as part of the maintenance.

Tire care is an essential aspect of vehicle maintenance. As the warmer weather approaches, take the time to ensure your tires are in top shape for those long, enjoyable drives.  If you would like your tires to be serviced, contact the professionals at Colonial Service Station to schedule and inspection and/or repairs.