The Best Practices for Extending Tire Lifespan Significantly
Tires are an essential part of our vehicles that often get overlooked. We rely heavily on them to get us from one place to another, but rarely do we take care of them until it’s too late. However, proper maintenance and care can significantly extend the lifespan of your tires, saving you both money and hassle in the long run. In this article, we will discuss the best practices that you can follow to extend your tire’s lifespan significantly.
Regularly check your tire pressure
One of the easiest ways to extend your tire’s lifespan is to ensure that they are inflated to the correct pressure. Under-inflated tires can cause uneven wear and tear, which can be dangerous while driving. It also puts extra strain on the tire, reducing its lifespan. On the other hand, over-inflated tires can cause the center of the tread to wear out faster, making them more prone to punctures.
It is recommended to check your tire pressure at least once a month, or before going on a long trip. You can find the recommended pressure for your tires in your vehicle’s owner manual or on a sticker usually located on the driver’s side door jamb.
Rotate your tires regularly
Tires don’t wear out evenly, which is why it is essential to rotate them regularly. It means swapping the tires’ position on your vehicle to ensure that they wear out evenly. For example, front tires tend to wear out faster than rear tires, so rotating them can help extend their lifespan. You should rotate your tires every 5,000-7,000 miles, or per your vehicle’s owner manual.
Get your wheels aligned
Wheel alignment refers to the angles at which your wheels touch the ground. Incorrect wheel alignment can cause your tires to wear out faster and unevenly. It can also cause your vehicle to pull to one side, making your drive uncomfortable and unsafe. It is recommended to get your wheels aligned every 6,000 miles or per your vehicle’s owner manual.
Don’t overload your vehicle
The weight of your vehicle affects the pressure on your tires, which can cause them to wear out faster. Overloading your vehicle puts extra strain on the tires, causing them to wear out quicker. Make sure to check your vehicle’s load rating and avoid exceeding it to extend your tire’s lifespan.
Avoid aggressive driving
Heavy braking, accelerating, and cornering can be tough on your tires, causing them to wear out faster. Aggressive driving also puts extra strain on other components of your vehicle, such as brakes and suspension, leading to potential costly repairs. By avoiding aggressive driving, you not only extend your tire’s lifespan but also increase your overall vehicle’s health.
Inspect your tires regularly
Finally, make sure to inspect your tires regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. These can all be indications that your tires need replacing, and driving on damaged tires poses a risk to your safety. If you notice anything unusual, make sure to seek professional help and get your tires replaced if needed.
In conclusion
Taking care of your tires is crucial for their lifespan and your safety. By following these simple best practices, you can significantly extend your tire’s lifespan and save yourself from unexpected breakdowns and expenses. Regularly checking your tire pressure, rotating your tires, getting your wheels aligned, avoiding overloading and aggressive driving, and inspecting your tires will ensure that you get the most out of your tires, keeping you safe on the road.
