Anyone knows that tires can be quite expensive. Replacing tires on your car is a necessity at some point in time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get the best use out of the tires your vehicle currently has. There are a few simple things that you can do to extend the life of your tires and get the most miles out of them. Follow these simple tips to save money and go further on your current set of tires.
Checking your tire pressure regularly is one of the easiest steps involved in making sure your tires last as long as possible. Driving your vehicle with tires that are not inflated properly can result in wear of your tires, added stress on your tires, loss of control of your vehicle and accidents. Low tire pressure is also responsible for increased stopping distance as well. A tire can lose up to 50% of it’s pressure but still appear to be fully inflated. For this reason it is important to check your tires on a regular basis. This can keep you from having to visit tire companies to purchase new or used tires. Tire pressure changes monthly, and during season changes. Summer air is warmer which increases tire pressure and winter air is cold which lowers your tire pressure. Tire companies will usually assist you with checking to ensure that your tires are properly inflated.
Tire Rotation
Rotating your tires is an important part of proper tire maintenance. It is recommended that you rotate your tires around every 7,500 miles. Remember this by keeping up with your oil changes. Every two oil changes, you should rotate your tires. Majority of cars use one or two wheels in order to move the vehicle. This means the two tires that are being used should be rotated so all four tires get worn at an even rate. A tire rotation is done by moving the tires to a different spot on the vehicle, usually placing the back one criss-crossed onto the front. Rotating your tires will make them last longer. Most reputable tire companies can assist you with a tire rotation.
Alignments
When your alignment is not right your car will pull to the left or the right, or you will notice your vehicle drifts to the left or to the right. Things that mess up alignment include hitting a curb, bumping against the parking barrier and hitting large potholes. Even a small change in alignment causes a reduction in fuel efficiency and cause your tires to wear out quicker. An alignment check should be performed when you have your oil changed on your vehicle. Tire companies are able to check your alignment and align your vehicle should you need it.
Balancing Act
Balancing your tires is typically done when your tires get rotated. Every tire and every wheel has what is known as a heavy spot on it. None of them are completely circular or round. A vehicle that has tires that are off-balance will sometimes vibrate while you are driving. This can result in extended wear on other parts of the tire. A special machine is used to balance each tire. Small weights are used in this process, and it’s important to have your tires balanced on a regular basis because as your tire wears different weights may need to be placed in different spots. This process is quick and relatively inexpensive and it’s a great way to extend the life of your tires. Many tire companies are fully equipped to help customers balance their tires.
Routine maintenance goes a long way when it comes to vehicles and tires. Keeping your tires in proper shape helps your vehicle last longer and reduces sudden problems such as flat tires and blow outs. Whether your vehicle has new tires or used tires take the time to care for them properly so they continue to work properly for you and your vehicle.