Your car is likely one of your most valuable and expensive possessions, and with that comes the responsibility of taking care of it. Aside from the other general maintenance needed for the engine, oil, windows, and other essential parts, the tires are the most important things to pay attention to in your car.
After all, the tires make the vehicle drivable and should be at the top of your checklist when looking after them. Here are some tips you can keep in mind that may be helpful when it comes to ensuring your tires are in proper shape. Learn more car care tips at autoinsurancequotesil.
1. Change Tires According to Climate
Especially if you live in a colder climate with a lot of ice and snow, keeping an eye on your tire tread depth is extremely important. The thread depth thickness indicates your tire’s durability and stability as you drive down the road. A tire with very thin threading may be at risk of popping or just falling apart at the seams, and this can also put you at a higher risk of being in a crash.
You can check the thread status of your tires simply by placing a quarter upside down into the grooves of each tire. If you see George Washington’s head, it is about time to shop for a new set. If the depths are uneven, it can mean that you will need to take it into the shop to get your tires rotated so that they don’t throw off the suspension. LEarn about the need for changing care tires at automobileinsur.
2. Check Tire Pressure
Tire pressure is another important factor in overall tire care. You will want to hunt for that sweet spot in between flat and too full because an extreme on either end can cause damage to the tires. When the tires are too full, you can cause them to wear out much quicker in the center of the threading. If your tires are too flat, you can wear out the edges much faster that way, and it will also cost you more money for gas.
This is due to the tires having to work much harder to keep going, and in return, you will burn more gas by needing to hit that fuel pedal even harder. To ensure you are at a happy medium, it is a good idea to check the tire pressure at least once a month. If you have a spare as well, it is a good idea to have that always filled up in case you need it unexpectedly.
For the best results, check the pressure when the tires are cold and you haven’t been driving around much that day, and always keep your tire pressure gauge in your glove box. Aside from the financial costs, tires with insufficient air have been known to put you at a much greater risk of an accident. Find more about how much should be the tire pressure on different terrains at autoinsuranceratemj.
3. Check Wheel Alignment and Balancing
It is also essential to check if your wheel alignment and tire balance are in good standing. When your tires are rotated, you give them more life and the capability to last longer. The reason is that the threads will wear out slowly, and this will cause your tires to become unbalanced.
By rotating them, you ensure they stay at about the same thickness for the duration of their use. If your tires end up being uneven, it can wear them out much quicker and pull the car to either the right or left as you drive. This would be a critical safety hazard.
