As the winter chill gives way to warmer weather, it’s time to get your vehicle ready for summer driving. One of the most critical aspects of this preparation involves giving your tires some warm weather tire maintenance. In this month’s blog post, we share some tips to ensure your tires are safe and in good working condition for those long, hot summer drives.

Inspect Your Tires Regularly

Regular inspection is the first step towards maintaining your tires. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. Pay close attention to the tread depth. A simple way to check this is by using the penny test. Insert a penny into your tire’s tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.

Check Tire Pressure

Tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes. For every 10 degrees Fahrenheit change in air temperature, your tire’s inflation pressure can change by about 1 PSI (Pound per Square Inch). Check your tire pressure at least once a month, and especially when there’s a significant temperature change. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for the recommended tire pressure.

Rotate Your Tires

To ensure even tire wear, it’s advisable to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Regular rotation helps extend the life of your tires and improve performance.

Balance and Align Your Tires

Unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear, vibration, and potentially unsafe driving conditions. It’s important to have your tires balanced and your wheels aligned. This is typically done during tire rotation.

Invest in Summer Tires

If you live in a region with extreme temperature differences between winter and summer, consider investing in summer tires. These tires are designed to perform better in hot conditions and can improve handling, traction, and fuel efficiency.

Don’t Forget the Spare

Your spare tire also needs attention. Check its condition and pressure to ensure it’s ready for use when needed.  Remember that spare tire pressure is different from your regular tires.  Too often, drivers discover their spare is underinflated at the time they need it the most.

Remember, well-maintained tires are crucial for safe driving. As we approach the summer months, take the time to prepare your tires for the road ahead. If you would like your tires to be inspected by a service professional, contact us at Car Kings to schedule an appointment.