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Are your tires in good condition?

They might look it at a glance, but that glance can be deceiving. Underinflation, for instance, isn't something you can tell by looking at a tire, unless it's completely flat. However, over 40% of drivers believe you can tell a tire is underinflated by looking at it. Tire pressure is one aspect of routine tire care that extends the life of your set and makes them less likely to suffer punctures. But it's not the only service that is beneficial. If you haven't been keeping up on tire maintenance, like routine tire pressure checks and rotations, your tires will benefit from some TLC.

Here are tire services that will help you keep the miles coming for longer:

Check Tire Pressure: Don't wait for the tire pressure warning light to illuminate. Use a tire pressure gauge to regularly check that your tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended PSI, usually found on the driver's side door jamb. It's recommended that you check your tires at minimum, at least once a month.

Inspect Tread: While a visual check doesn't work on tire pressure, it can be done to check the tread depth and see if there are irregularities in how the tread is wearing. Some tires have wear bars to tell you when they are low, but you can also try the penny test in a pinch (insert a penny upside down into the tread; if you can see Lincoln's head, it's time to replace the tire). If you notice the tires wearing unequally or in irregular ways, you may need a rotation or alignment.

Rotate Tires: Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to promote even wear across the set. If you don't rotate your tires, you may end up in a position where two tires wear out more quickly than the other two (for example, the front tires may require replacement while the rear tires have a decent amount of tread remaining). However, it is also strongly advised that you drive on tires that have the same amount of tread, so you may end up replacing all four. Rotating tires helps prevent this situation.

Balance Tires: Have the tires balanced when installed or rotated to prevent vibrations and uneven wear. 

Alignment Check: Have your wheel alignment checked if you notice uneven tire wear or if the vehicle pulls to one side. It's a good idea to have an alignment inspection at least once per year and always if you notice issues like irregular tread wear, the vehicle pulling to one side, a crooked steering wheel, or other signs of misalignment. You should also have an alignment check performed when installing new tires to ensure you start your new set off in the best position to provide you with the longest life.

Clean Tires: Regularly wash tires to remove dirt and brake dust, which can degrade rubber over time or hide small defects.

At Finn Tire & Automotive, we can assist when you need tire services in Bedford Heights, OH. We know firsthand how much better tires do with regular upkeep and encourage you to be proactive in the care of your set. If you have questions on tire care or need to schedule a service, give us a call and we'll be happy to assist you.