Tires Are the Moving Foundation of a Vehicle

Just as runners improve their performance with well-fitting shoes designed for running, your car’s performance will improve with the size and tread of its tires. It doesn’t matter how well your car’s engine runs or how fabulous it looks, without tires, it isn’t going anywhere!

Benefits of Tire Maintenance

You’ve probably seen some old movies set in a past decade where a car’s tire blows, literally stopping the vehicle dead in its tracks. Cars no longer have inner tubes to blow, but a flat tire is still cause to keep it from traveling. Faster cars and speed limit increases have contributed to the danger of driving on tires with worn treads, too little air pressure or cracks from aging.

Regular tire maintenance extends the life of your tires and protects your family. During extremely hot or cold temperatures, you should periodically check the air pressure in your tires to avoid possible mishaps. Proper air pressure will also improve fuel mileage, a very desirable advantage considering the cost of gas. Whatever car or tires you have, rotating the tires, according to manufacturer recommendations, is another way to squeak added miles from a gallon of gas and get as much life as possible from your tires.

Replace Tires at Recommended Mileage for Ultimate Safety

Tires do wear out, and because so much depends on them, you really can’t ignore the signs. Worn treads on tires decreases traction to the road and can affect the reliability of your brakes, particularly on wet or icy roads. In the U.S., tires with only 1/16th of an inch tread are considered unsafe. Gauges are available to measure tread depth, or you can use a penny. Place the penny with Lincoln’s head upside down into the tread. If you can still see Lincoln’s head, then your tires need replacing.

A Rough Winter

The 2014 winter was tough on the whole country, but particularly states along the East Coast were pummeled with extreme cold, ice and snow. The harsh extremes caused roads to buckle and potholes to form. Such road conditions are particularly hard on tires. If your vehicle braved the winter and now needs replacement tires, be sure they are the right size for your vehicle. Your owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door will have the recommended tire size for your vehicle. Qualified automotive technicians will be able to help you ensure the correct size and type for your driving habits. You can find quality Pittsburgh tires at many fine locations including dealerships such as Western Toyota.