Chances are, many of us barely notice them, yet our tires are one of the most important components of our cars. Good tire health is a part not just of the proper functioning of your car, but of the safety of you and your passengers as well. Staying on top of your tire maintenance can save you time and money in maintenance headaches. There are a few things to look for before heading out on the road.
Under pressure
One area that you'll find yourself monitoring often is your tires' air pressure, which can fluctuate frequently. Perhaps the part of your tire maintenance plan that will see the most fluctuation, which is why it's recommended that you check the air pressure in your tires every month or so, and a pressure gauge is definitely a good thing to keep in your glove compartment. Improper tire pressure, whether too high or too low, can reduce the handling or braking ability of your car, which is a serious safety risk, so keeping your tire pressure at the right levels is essential.
According to Car Talk, tire pressure can change even without a leak – assume a loss of 1 pound per square inch for every 10-degree drop in temperature, so remaining vigilant in the winter months is particularly important.
Rotation relation
Having your tires rotated is key to good tire health. Over time, your tires can develop wear, and rotating their positions on your car can help to keep this even, adding to your tires' life. Especially if you have a front-wheel-drive car, regular tire rotation will help to space out the rate at which your tread wears down. Typically, cars will have tire rotation schedules outlined in the owner's manual, but expect to have this done around every 6,000 miles.
Tread lightly
Your tire's tread is, simply put, the most important part of the whole shebang. This contoured surface is what makes contact with the road, gripping it firmly, providing traction and keeping your car under control. Over time, your tire's tread will wear down naturally, so make sure you keep an eye on it.
As AOL Autos reported, many tires have wear indicator bars built into them, but in general, if you stick a penny into your tread and can see the top of Abe's head, it's time for replacements.
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