When you invest in a new set of tires for your car, you can make them last longer with proper maintenance to extend tire life. Save money on tire replacement over your car’s lifespan and increase road safety with these driving and tire care tips.
How to maintain car tires
Regular maintenance is the most efficient way to keep your tires lasting long, and it can save you a load of money in the long-run. We have put together some useful tips for making your tires last longer so you can get the most value for your money. Here is a list of things you can do to extend the life of your tires and make them last longer.
1. Keep your tires inflated by checking your tire air pressure monthly
Tires naturally lose air over time, so topping them up every so often is necessary. If you continually drive on tires that are low on air, they can suffer serious damage; the structure of the tire breaks down due to the lack of air support. Always use the same tire pressure gauge.
Inflate your car tires to the pressures listed on the carmaker’s decal, not to the maximum pressure that is listed on the tire. The recommended tire pressure is based on the weight of your vehicle, not the tire brand or tread style. Tires low on air decrease gas mileage and wear out quicker on the outside of the tire. Tires with too much pressure will wear out in the centre faster. In both cases, you will be adding stress on the sidewalls, which leads to premature wear. Cold weather also causes lower air pressure. Warmer temperatures increase the air pressure. The best way to extend the life of your tires is to check your tire pressure regularly.
2. Rotate your tires regularly
Rotation makes tires last longer. Tires wear out unevenly on most vehicles. Tires on the drive train part of the vehicle wear out quicker. To help balance this wear, rotating your tires helps spread the weight to all four tires. In most cars, only one or two wheels actually drive the car at a time, which can cause uneven tire wear. Even all-wheel-drive vehicles can see uneven wear, as most shift the drive from one wheel to another. Rotating tires by moving them to different wheel positions gives tires on drive wheels a rest and evens out wear. Get your tires rotated regularly (every second oil change or 5,000 miles) to ensure even tire wear.
3. Make sure your tires are aligned by checking your alignment twice a year
If your tires are not correctly aligned, they develop harmful wear and tear, and they will not have a very long lifespan. Improper alignment can cause serious problems with your tires. If you see disproportionate wear on the outside of the tire, your car may be misaligned, which can severely damage your tires. If your car actively pulls or drifts to the left or right, or the steering wheel vibrates or shakes, your vehicle may have an alignment problem. When you bump up against a parking lot barrier, hit the curb, or hit a pothole, something must give, and it is often your alignment. The slightest misalignment can reduce fuel efficiency and increase tread wear.
4. Clean your tires
Cleaning your car tires helps get rid of debris that may cause damage and shorten the lifespan of your tires. When washing and cleaning your car, also clean the tires by scrubbing the treading with a bristled brush. This will remove any objects or debris that may dig into or grate your tires.
Tires can last for well over six years if properly maintained, which can save you a lot of money if diligently cared for. By following tips, you are sure to see gains in your tires’ longevity. Everything rides on your tires, which is why it is so important that they never let you down. CRS Automotive has you covered. Choose from a large selection of all-season, winter or summer tires. For more information, contact us today and book a service.
