Justin's Tips on Tire Safety
Your tires are one of the most critical safety features on your vehicle. They are responsible for keeping you on the road and preventing accidents. That’s why it’s essential to maintain your tires properly and check them regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Here are some tire safety practices to follow:
- Age: Tires have a lifespan of about 6 years. After that, they start to deteriorate and become more likely to fail. If you don’t remember your last tire change, you may find the date of manufacture on the sidewall of your tire.
- Tread Depth: The tread on your tires is what provides traction and prevents hydroplaning. When the tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace your tires. You can use the penny test to check your tread depth.
- Tire Pressure: Proper tire pressure helps to ensure that your tires wear evenly and provide optimal traction. Check your tire pressure monthly and adjust it as needed.
- Load Capacity. Make sure that your tires are rated for the weight of your vehicle and cargo, especially during travel times if you are weighing down your car with bikes, boats, and other items.
In addition to regular checks, you should have your tires rotated and balanced every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. This will help to prevent uneven wear and improve your vehicle’s handling.
By following a few simple tire safety practices, you can help to keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road.