Does your car not seem to handle the road the way it once did? Do you get nervous for driving at the very thought of snow? Does your car slip and slide when it rains? If you answered yes to any of these questions you may need to consider your vehicle’s tires. The right set of tire set of tires can help your vehicle drive safely no matter what the weather conditions are.
Tire Pressure
One of the easiest ways to get the most out of your tires is to ensure that they have the right amount of tire pressure. You should check your tire pressure every month or more often if you put on a lot of miles(such as every time you fill up with gas).To find out the recommended tire pressure (PSI) for your vehicle you can find a sticker on either the console, trunk, fuel door or door jam. If you cannot find the recommended tire pressure sticker make sure to check your owner’s manual (which you can often find online if you have misplaced the original).
If you are headed out for a long drive or road trip make sure to perform a thorough inspection of your tires ensuring that they are all filled to the right tire pressure and that there are no leaks. Having your tires inflated to the right PSI will give you the best performance and fuel efficiency.
Types of Tires
All-season Tires
All-season tires are meant for stable handling for all weather and road conditions. They give your vehicle a quiet ride and have even tread wear to keep you safe while on the road in all types of weather.
Performance Tires
If you are someone who loves to drive fast and get a good feel of the road you know how important the right tires are. To get the best out of your vehicle for managing tight curves, driving at high speeds and stopping on a dime you need performance tires. Be prepared to spend more on these tires even though they generally just used in the summer.
Winter Tires
If the roads are wet, covered in snow and slippery you need tires that will grip the road to keep you safe. Winter tires are extremely important for the season to help your vehicle navigate the roads during nasty weather. When looking to outfit your vehicle with winter tires look for the best traction you can find.
Do You Need New Tires?
Having the right tires and maintaining them properly will ensure that your vehicle drives smoothly. If you are unsure if you need new tires there are a few indicators that can help you to figure it out. You should check the tread wear on your tire. Tread wear refers to the grip that is on the tires which allows the car to maneuver safely on the road. If your tires are worn or you notice insufficient tread wear you may need a new set of tires. Most tire manufacturers recommend that tires are replaced every five years, or more often depending on how many miles are on them. If you are unsure if your vehicle requires new tires or not, bring it to your local mechanic or auto shop for a professional evaluation.
Creating a simple car routine that involves checking out your tires and their overall condition can help to keep you and others safe on the road.
