Whether your car is new or used, the condition and maintenance of the tires ultimately determine how smooth a drive is. The condition of the tires also determines how safe you are on the road, which makes it important to ensure proper car tire safety before you drive. Tires that are properly maintained have increased longevity and provide you and your car safety. Also, maintaining tires saves you a large sum of money in the long run. Here are a few essential tips that will help you maintain car tire safety in the best way:
- Choose your tires carefully
Many people buy tires by looking at the appearance or price. While these are indeed important factors to be considered, the selection should focus more on the technical aspects, one of which is the right size. Each vehicle has a recommended tire size for it, which is determined by the manufacturer based on the load specifications, among other factors. You should always consult an experienced automobile or tire dealer about which tire you should select for your car. Apart from this, you should be aware of your driving habits and patterns to make a better selection of tires for your use. - Keep a tire gauge handy
A tire gauge is an instrument that measures the amount of air in your tires. Keeping it in the car will help you check the air in the tires when you feel that it is affecting the car’s performance. This helps you to know when your tires require additional air. - Maintain a track of tire pressure
Most car owners agree on the fact that under-inflation is a tire’s biggest enemy. It is capable of causing damage, which, in turn, leads to tire failure. However, the same can be said for over-inflation, which can lead to uneven wear and tear, along with issues with stopping and controlling the car. So, it is always recommended to refer to the recommended air pressure given in the vehicle’s owner manual or the door jamb of the vehicle. In addition, you should always check tire pressure when the tires are cold as heat during driving affects the air pressure readings.
- Drive slow in wet weather
An important aspect of car tire safety is the tire footprint. It is a measurement of how much the tire’s treads contact the surface. The tire footprint goes higher as the speed of your car decreases and provides the car higher traction on the road. Also, this reduces the risk of hydroplaning if you drive into a water puddle all of a sudden. - Keep track of alignment
Problems caused by the wear and tear of car tires can cause issues with vehicle alignment, hampering car tire safety. This makes it important for you to consult an experienced automotive professional for any issues you experience with alignment. This is especially applicable when your car starts pulling to one side while driving.
