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Tires are an investment in your car. We at Schierl Tire & Service might be a little biased, but we would say they’re one of the most important parts of your car – after all, they’re the only part that’s always in contact with the road.

If your tires aren’t up to task, that can result in a reduction of not just vehicle performance, but proper handling, and the longevity of the tires themselves. Protect your investment!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prolonging the lifespan of your tires requires a combination of proper maintenance practices and adopting good driving habits. Here are some practical tips to help you maximize the longevity of your tires:

• Regular Tire Inspections:
  • Perform visual inspections of your tires regularly. Look for signs of uneven wear, cuts, bulges, or any other abnormalities. Detecting issues early allows for prompt corrective action.
• Proper Tire Inflation:
  • Check and support the recommended tire pressure regularly, following the specifications provided in your vehicle's owner's manual. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to premature wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised safety.

 

Different types of tire wear can indicate different issues with your vehicle. Keep an eye out for any wear that looks like this:

 

 

• Rotate Tires Regularly:
  • Rotate your tires at regular intervals, typically every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Rotating tires ensure even wear and extends their overall lifespan.
• Wheel Alignment
  • Keep your vehicle properly aligned to prevent uneven tire wear. Misaligned wheels can cause tires to wear out faster, affecting handling and safety. Check and adjust the wheel alignment as needed, especially after hitting potholes or curbs.
• Balancing:
  • Ensure that your tires are balanced when mounted on the wheels. Unbalanced tires can lead to uneven wear and vibrations, affecting both tire lifespan and ride comfort.
• Avoid Overloading:
  • Do not exceed the largest load ability specified for your vehicle. Overloading puts excessive strain on tires, leading to faster wear and potential damage. Check your vehicle's load ability in the owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb.
• Drive Smoothly:
  • Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as sharp turns, sudden stops, and rapid acceleration. Smooth driving reduces the stress on your tires, minimizing wear and tear. Also, it’s safer!
• Mindful Parking:
  • Be cautious when parking near curbs to avoid scraping or damaging your tires. Also, try to avoid parking in direct sunlight for extended periods, as excessive heat can accelerate tire aging.
• Choose Appropriate Tires:
  • Select tires that are suitable for your driving conditions and climate. If you experience winter weather, consider using winter tires with special tread patterns and rubber formulation designed for enhanced traction in snow and ice.
• Storage Practices:
  • If you have a spare set of tires, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage helps prevent premature aging of the rubber.
• Regular Tire Balancing:
  • Schedule regular tire balancing to ensure that weight is distributed evenly across all tires. Unbalanced tires can lead to uneven wear and vibration.
• Maintain Suspension Components:
  • Keep the vehicle's suspension system in good condition. Worn-out or damaged suspension components can contribute to uneven tire wear. Address any issues promptly.

 

By following these tips, you can help contribute to the longevity of your tires, enhance safety, and optimize the performance of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and mindful driving habits are key to getting the most out of your tires.

 

Should you find yourself in need of new tires, just call your local Schierl Tire & Service and we would be happy to help you find the right set of tires for your driving needs and budget.