Buying new tires can be expensive and confusing with so many different options available. Therefore, you want to get the most out of the tires on your car so that you don’t have to replace them as often. These simple tips can help you improve the life of your tires, saving you money in the long run.
Choose the Right Tire for Your Vehicle
Choosing the right tire is more than just choosing the right size. Road conditions, weather, the way you drive and your driving habits should all be considered when you buy new tires. City driving will require a different type of tire than highway driving. If the roads you travel are rough terrain, you will need a different type of tire than someone who drives on smooth roadways the majority of the time. Be sure to follow your car manufacturer’s recommendation as well.
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Understand Your Current Tires
When you are buying tires, understanding the type of tire you already have can save you time and money. If your tires have the letter “P” at the beginning of the tire size, the tire you currently have is a P-Metric tire which meets certain standards in the United States for passenger vehicles. The letters “LT” stand for light truck, although some trucks use P-Metric tires as well. The three-digit number in the tire size refers to the tire width and the two-digit number after the slash mark refers to the aspect ratio. The aspect ratio is the height of the cross-section of the tire to its width. The letter “R” indicates that the tire is a radial tire. Other numbers on the tire refer to the wheel diameter, speed rating and load index.
Check Your Tire Pressure Weekly
Use a tire pressure gauge to check your tire pressure each week. You can find pressure gauges at any automotive store or in the automotive section of department stores which are relatively inexpensive. All four tires should be evenly inflated to the manufacturers recommendation. The recommendation is printed directly on the tire. Be sure not to over-inflate your tires as this could cause extensive tread wear. While checking the pressure, visually examine the tire for cuts or damage. A nail in a tire may not cause the tire to immediately go flat, but could cause a slow leak.
Tire Rotation and Alignment
Every 6,000 miles, rotate your tires. Many people elect to rotate their tires at the same time they change the oil. Rotating tires allows all four to wear evenly. Be sure to trade wheels between axles, keeping them on the same side of the car. If you choose to rotate your own tires, use a reliable car jack to avoid injury. You also need to keep your tires properly aligned. If you notice that your vehicle handles poorly and consistently pulls to one side if you let go of the wheel, your tires may be out of align. Alignment must be performed by a certified mechanic who will use special equipment to be sure your wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground.
These simple tips can help you extend the life of your tires, saving you time and money. For more tips on tires and other ways to save money on your vehicle, complete the easy online form. A friendly customer service agent will answer any questions and help guide you in the right direction.
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