Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road, which makes them one of the most important safety components on your car. Whether you’re commuting to work, taking a weekend trip, or navigating wet or slick roads, your tires play a crucial role in how well your car grips, stops, and handles. That’s why regular tire maintenance isn’t just about getting better gas mileage—it’s about keeping you and everyone else on the road safe.
Here’s how to keep your tires in great shape for safer driving year-round.
1. Check Tire Pressure Monthly
Incorrect tire pressure—whether too low or too high—can lead to poor handling, uneven wear, and a higher risk of a blowout.
- Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire at least once a month.
- Do it when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
- Inflate to the recommended PSI listed on your driver-side door jamb, not the number on the tire itself.
Proper inflation keeps your tires gripping the road as they should, especially during sudden stops or turns.
2. Inspect Tread Depth Regularly
Your tire’s tread is what allows it to maintain traction in different road conditions. If it’s too worn, your car will have a harder time stopping—especially in rain or snow.
- Use the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.
- Tires with low tread depth are more likely to hydroplane or lose grip on slick surfaces.
3. Rotate Your Tires on Schedule
Tires wear differently depending on their position on your vehicle. Regular rotations help them wear evenly, which extends their life and improves handling.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or as recommended in your owner’s manual.
- Uneven wear can also be a sign of alignment or suspension issues.
4. Check for Damage or Uneven Wear
Look over your tires for signs of cracks, bulges, cuts, or embedded objects. Also, keep an eye out for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate underinflation, misalignment, or suspension problems.
- If you spot anything unusual, have a professional inspect your tires.
- Driving on damaged tires puts you at serious risk for flats or blowouts.
5. Don’t Forget About Wheel Alignment and Balancing
If your car pulls to one side, your steering wheel vibrates, or your tires are wearing unevenly, your wheels may be out of alignment or balance.
- Get your alignment checked at least once a year or after hitting a curb or pothole.
- Balanced tires reduce vibration and improve ride quality.
Final Thoughts
Tire maintenance doesn’t take much time, but it can make a big difference in how your car handles and how safe it is on the road. A few simple checks and services—like monitoring pressure, checking tread, and rotating tires—can help prevent accidents, extend tire life, and give you peace of mind behind the wheel. Make tire care part of your regular maintenance routine and stay safe no matter where the road takes you.