Your tires are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. They’re your car’s only contact with the road, and how well they’re maintained directly affects your ability to steer, brake, and handle different road conditions. Keeping your tires in good shape is one of the easiest ways to stay safe and avoid costly repairs down the line.
Here’s how to maintain your car’s tires for optimal road safety year-round.
1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Driving with underinflated or overinflated tires can cause poor handling, uneven wear, and reduced fuel efficiency. It can also increase the risk of a blowout—especially at higher speeds.
- Use a reliable tire pressure gauge at least once a month.
- Check pressure when the tires are cold (before driving).
- Inflate to the PSI listed on the sticker inside your driver’s door—not the number printed on the tire sidewall.
- Don’t forget to check your spare, too.
2. Inspect Tread Depth and Wear Patterns
Tread helps your tires grip the road—especially in wet or slippery conditions. Bald tires can increase stopping distance and hydroplaning risk.
- Use the penny test: place a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is too worn.
- Look for uneven wear, which could point to alignment or suspension issues.
- Check for visible damage, like cuts, punctures, or bulges.
3. Rotate Tires Regularly
Tires wear differently depending on where they are on your vehicle. Front tires typically wear faster due to steering and braking.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles—or as recommended by your vehicle’s manual.
- This helps extend tire life and promotes even tread wear for better traction and handling.
4. Keep Your Wheels Aligned and Balanced
Poor alignment can cause your vehicle to pull to one side and lead to uneven or rapid tire wear. Unbalanced tires can cause vibrations while driving.
- If your steering feels off or your car shakes at higher speeds, have your alignment and balance checked.
- Routine alignment checks help your tires wear evenly and improve overall driving comfort.
5. Replace Tires When Needed
Even the best-maintained tires need to be replaced eventually. Most tires last between 40,000 and 60,000 miles, depending on driving habits and road conditions.
- Replace tires with worn tread, sidewall damage, or if they’re more than 6 years old—even if they look okay.
- Always replace in pairs or all four tires to maintain balanced handling and traction.
Final Thoughts
Tire maintenance isn’t complicated, but it’s critical for staying safe on the road. A few simple checks and regular service can help you avoid accidents, save money on fuel, and extend the life of your tires. If you haven’t looked at your tires in a while, take a few minutes to inspect them—or swing by a local auto shop for a quick checkup. Your safety starts where the rubber meets the road.
