Tire Maintenance: Enhancing Safety, Performance, and Longevity
Tire maintenance is a critical aspect of vehicle safety and efficiency that often goes overlooked. Properly maintained tires not only ensure a smoother and safer ride but also improve fuel economy and extend the life of your tires.
Key Maintenance Practices:
- Regular Pressure Checks: Keeping tire pressure at manufacturer-recommended levels prevents underinflation, which can lead to increased wear and blowouts, or overinflation, which affects traction. Use a reliable pressure gauge to monitor this monthly.
- Tread Depth Monitoring: Tires should have a tread depth of at least 1.6 mm. Performing a “coin test” can help gauge if replacements are needed—if a significant part of the coin remains visible, it’s time to replace the tires.
- Tire Rotation and Alignment: Uneven wear reduces a tire’s lifespan. Rotating tires every 10,000 to 12,000 km and aligning them periodically ensures balanced wear.
Tires are a driver’s primary contact with the road. Neglecting their upkeep can increase the risk of accidents, particularly in adverse weather conditions.