Keys to Proper Tire Maintenance

Depending on the type of vehicle you own, tires can be a fairly hefty investment. Studies have shown that tires are one of the most overlooked area when it comes to vehicle maintenance. Your car tires are what connects your vehicle to the road. Tires that are overinflated, underinflated, misaligned, and dry-rotted can become safety hazards and put you at risk of having an accident because of steering or vehicle suspension problems. By following a few tire maintenance tips, not only will you be able to keep your tires on the road longer, you’ll have some peace of mind knowing your vehicle can operate safely and more efficiently.

Key #1 – Check Tire Inflation Regularly

Proper tire inflation will allow your tires to wear more evenly, help you save on gas and also improves handling. Weather temperatures will affect tire inflation. That’s why it’s a good idea to check the air pressure in your tires at least once a month. Tires that are underinflated with create more friction and heat – increasing the likelihood of failure. A tire pressure gauge is a minimal investment and checking tires is a quick and easy process.  Remember to inflate your tires to the air pressure that’s indicated on a  sticker inside the driver’s door. You’ll also want to check the tires first thing in the morning, while they are still cold.

The Check Tire Pressure Warning Light

This warning light will come on when one or more of your tires are underinflated. Check the tire pressure and add air right away. It’s especially important to check your tires and add more air if you’ve been driving and this light comes on. This most likely means your tire is losing air quickly. You don’t want to drive on a flat tire as it could pose serious safety risks and also cause further damage to the wheel. If the tires are inflated properly and the light remains on, make an appointment with Geller’s Automotive in Byram, NJ. Sensors can sometimes go bad and need to be replaced.

Key #2 – Regularly Rotate Tires

Your tires will wear more evenly and will last longer if they are rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. The simplest way to make sure tire maintenance is done on a regular schedule is to have the tires rotated at each engine oil and filter change.  If they aren’t rotated regularly, you’ll find one or more tires wearing out before the others. For safety measures, it’s highly recommended to replace all 4 tires at the same time.

Key #3 – Regularly Check the Front End for Vehicle Suspension Problems and Vehicle Alignment

Steering or suspension system parts that are worn out will cause premature wear on tires. Worn steering or suspensions systems are also a serious safety hazard. Your vehicle’s suspension system helps you maintain control of your vehicle by keeping the tires in contact with the road, especially when you hit bumps. Additinally, the suspension system allows your vehicle to turn corners without rolling. If you notice excessive bounce and more roll or sway in the body of your vehicle, you’ll want to have the suspension system checked. You should also have a tire alignment performed at least once a year (or more if you find you hit a curb or a large pothole). The technicians at Geller’s Automotive are skilled at handling any of your steering system or suspension system repairs as well as alignments.

Key #4 – Inspect Your Tires on a Regular Basis

You should inspect your tires every time you check the air inflation pressure.  You’ll want to look at tread depth. You should also check to see how tires are wearing. If you notice any uneven wear or very little tread depth, have your tires replaced right away. Are your tires dry rotted? Here are some photos from a tire blowout we recently had in our shop. Tire tread wear is not the only indication that your tires need to be replaced.

Geller’s Automotive in Byram, New Jersey Can Help You with Tire Maintenance

By following all the key steps we’ve listed here, you’ll be able to maintain your tires for their expected lifetime. When it comes time to replace them, give Geller’s Automotive a call. We can help you select the right tires for your vehicle and budget. We can also handle any repair or maintenance when it comes to vehicle suspension problems and issues with steering systems. Click here to make an appointment with Geller’s Automotive in Byram, New Jersey.

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