As a driver, one of the most expensive things to do is change all four of your car’s tires. For this reason, it’s important to know how to extend tire life, and find out what you can do to get the most out of your tires.
No matter what car you drive, or how you drive, there are things drivers can do that will extend the life of their tires.
Weekly inspection
Checking the tire pressure for all four tires weekly is the best way to maintain proper tire pressure, which in turn will extend tire life. All tires must be inflated evenly, and must follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the proper level of inflation. Lower pressure improves performance, and higher pressure levels extend tire life; however, follow the manufacturer’s directions for the appropriate level.
Visual exam
Using the proper pressure gauge, and a tool to check your tires regularly, is great, but a visual inspection will also give you insight into your tires, and can help extend their life. If there are nails or other sharp objects in the tire, you may not notice it right away; however, a visual inspection will allow you to see this, so that you are not suddenly surprised one morning when a slow leak has finally reached the end point of the tire’s life.
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We recommend rotating tires every 5,000 to 6,000 if possible. This will result in even wear; when rotating, the tires must rotate on the same axis to ensure wear and even distribution. Do not crisscross the switch if you prefer to change it yourself, rather than at a local mechanic.
alignment
When the car is out of alignment, the front tires will wear out faster, and the rear tires can also wear out at different rates. It’s best to visit a mechanic to get the tires aligned; every vehicle is different, and this means that each car will need different equipment and lift to get its tires aligned properly. When you take your car to a local repair shop, make sure the tires are aligned, and if not, do this job as suggested by the mechanic at your repair shop.
Check for cracks or bubbles
The tread or sidewall of a tire is the most common place for bubbles or other cracks to form. This is probably because you need new tires, or because you experienced something; In any case, checking for signs of cracks, bubbles, or other deformities, is an easy way to ensure tires are in the best condition. When noticed, make sure you fix the problem right away; even if small cracks seem harmless, they can get bigger over time, and do more harm than good if you wait too long to fix the problem.
Slow down
By reducing your top speed, you will also extend the life of your tires. Traveling at low speeds not only extends tire life but also helps with fuel maintenance. So you’ll save on the cost of changing your tires as often as possible, and you’ll also save on pumps when you slow down on the highway.
Proper installation
The tires are most efficient, and last the longest, when they are rounder, and fuller; this means that the tire must be properly mounted on the car, rotating on the thickest part of the tire. When properly installed, you don’t have to worry balancing tiresbecause they will be on the ideal running surface.
Match tires
On many cars, you may see two tires on a similar front axle, and two completely different tires on the back; this not only reduces performance, but also causes uneven wear. When changing tires, try to match the tire brand and serial number, and try to match all four tires, for the best performance, and for the safest operation on the road.
Never change just one
If you need to replace one tire, buy a second tire, and replace at least two tires at a time. You must have the same tires on the front and rear axles of your car at all times. So even if both tires are not worn evenly, or if both front or rear tires do not need replacing, it is best to replace at least two at a time. It is best to replace all four at once; however, if you can’t afford one, or if you have two new tires, instead of just changing one, make sure you replace them in pairs when needed.
Suspension
If there is a component of suspension worn or damaged, be sure to replace it. Shock absorbers can put pressure on the tires. Instead of waiting until they are completely damaged, it is best to replace or have the shock absorbers and other suspension components repaired at the first sign of wear or poor road performance.
As a driver, you have to maintain your car, and you have to pay attention to the service deadline. If possible, rotate the tires and get your car aligned as suggested by the mechanic who worked on your car. And, even if you believe a minor crack is a minor problem, be sure to have it checked the next time you take your car to a repair shop.
Paying attention to these details, you will greatly extend the life of your car tires. This will not only result in lower replacement costs, but will also make you a safer driver on the road. Your car will also perform better on the road, and this will result in lower maintenance costs, and may be able to help extend the overall life of your car, by paying attention to certain signs, and the maintenance required for your tires.
Ben James is a recruitment consultant from Melbourne who loves cars.
