Like car manufacturers, tire makers have to work very hard to provide us with an excellent product. As with cars, we as users and owners are responsible for the upkeep of said items. No, tires do not require oil changes and battery replacements, but they do need to be rotated, inflated and occasionally stroked...
Yes, here we go again about tire pressure. We don't even think it's necessary to mention it, but checking the amount of air in your tires is a must. Think of it like flossing: you hate to do it, but you know you have to.
We're sure you knew, but just in case it slipped your mind; under-inflated tires can negatively affect gas mileage, wear out more quickly and pose a potential safety risk. Be sure to check for proper air pressure when the tires are cold so you can inflate them as needed. And while you're crouched down checking tire pressures, turn your steering wheel so that it's easy to see across the entire tread of the front tires. If you've recently whacked a big pot hole, chances are your alignment is off and that you'll notice heavier wear to the inside or outside edges of the rubber. Uneven wear is a sign that you're wasting fuel and in need of an alignment and some replacement tires.
About rotations, simply follow the tire's and/or car's recommended intervals depending on the type of tire that your car is equipped with.
Let's say you've done all this and the time has now come for you to replace your tires with fresh, new rubber. In many cases, your car may require a specific type of tire for its exact needs -- take into consideration ride quality, handling, economy, and overall comfort.
When your tires wear out, you may be presented with dozens of replacement options. They're like your vehicle's shoes and having the proper kind for the job is important, especially in today's crowded market of do-it-all vehicles like crossovers, minivans and SUVs.
If you're not sure what type of replacement tires you need, a quick visit to your dealership or tire specialist can help steer you in the right direction. They'll have options for you, as well as advice to hook you up with a tire that's just right for your ride and how you use it. For instance, that mud tire may be a waste on your truck if you rarely take it off-road. Using snow tires in the middle of July is a bad idea as well, as they'll wear out in no time and throw fuel economy right out the window.
Since they're the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the road, tires are vital to the proper operation of other vehicle systems like your brakes, stability control, traction assist, and steering. Good thing they're the easiest and most inexpensive part of your ride to maintain.
Yes, here we go again about tire pressure. We don't even think it's necessary to mention it, but checking the amount of air in your tires is a must. Think of it like flossing: you hate to do it, but you know you have to.
We're sure you knew, but just in case it slipped your mind; under-inflated tires can negatively affect gas mileage, wear out more quickly and pose a potential safety risk. Be sure to check for proper air pressure when the tires are cold so you can inflate them as needed. And while you're crouched down checking tire pressures, turn your steering wheel so that it's easy to see across the entire tread of the front tires. If you've recently whacked a big pot hole, chances are your alignment is off and that you'll notice heavier wear to the inside or outside edges of the rubber. Uneven wear is a sign that you're wasting fuel and in need of an alignment and some replacement tires.
About rotations, simply follow the tire's and/or car's recommended intervals depending on the type of tire that your car is equipped with.
Let's say you've done all this and the time has now come for you to replace your tires with fresh, new rubber. In many cases, your car may require a specific type of tire for its exact needs -- take into consideration ride quality, handling, economy, and overall comfort.
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| Photo: Thinkstock |
When your tires wear out, you may be presented with dozens of replacement options. They're like your vehicle's shoes and having the proper kind for the job is important, especially in today's crowded market of do-it-all vehicles like crossovers, minivans and SUVs.
If you're not sure what type of replacement tires you need, a quick visit to your dealership or tire specialist can help steer you in the right direction. They'll have options for you, as well as advice to hook you up with a tire that's just right for your ride and how you use it. For instance, that mud tire may be a waste on your truck if you rarely take it off-road. Using snow tires in the middle of July is a bad idea as well, as they'll wear out in no time and throw fuel economy right out the window.
Since they're the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the road, tires are vital to the proper operation of other vehicle systems like your brakes, stability control, traction assist, and steering. Good thing they're the easiest and most inexpensive part of your ride to maintain.