The tires on your vehicle take the most abuse every time you take them out onto the road. You are likely to need to replace them from time to time. However, proper driving habits can help you minimize how frequently this is. If you fail to maintain your tires, you could be in an accident. To avoid having to file an auto insurance claim for such an incident, consider these tips for minimizing wear and tear on your tires.
Choose the Right Tires For Your Car
Your car’s manufacturer usually provides specific information about the size and type of tire right for the vehicle. Be sure to buy exactly what the manufacturer recommends. This may help to minimize the amount of damage to the frame of the car and your alignment. In other words, you will put less strain on other parts of the vehicle.
Have the Tires Rotated
In all situations, tire rotation is critical. No car drives evenly on all sides all the time. You may make more left turns, for example, than right. Uneven road surfaces also cause uneven wear on the tire. By rotating them, the tires wear down more evenly. This helps extend their life but also can help minimize the risk of blowouts. Your car insurance may offer some protection from this type of accident. However, it is best to have the dealership or mechanic rotate the tires every other time you change the oil. You might avoid an accident altogether.
Check Your Tires Routinely
Most manufacturers recommend checking your tires at least one time a week. You do so to ensure they are in good condition. If you notice stones, nails or other items embedded in them, have these items removed. Your mechanic can help with this. Also look for any damage to the rim. A small bend here can throw off the alignment significantly.
Try to Drive Safely
This seems like a simple statement, but it can help minimize accidents. Avoid curbs and potholes. Ensure your vehicle has proper alignment, especially if you drive on uneven surfaces. This is also something your mechanic can help you with. Drive the speed limit, too. If you notice changes in the way the vehicle feels or drives, such as pulling to one side, get in it for an inspection.
Keep in mind auto insurance does not pay to simply replace tires. It is a normal type of wear and tear on a vehicle. Tires damaged by accidents might have coverage, however. Still, your insurance company may deny some car insurance claims as well if caused by tire wear and tear.
FAQ’s About How to Protect Your Tires from Wear and Tear
Why is tire maintenance important?
Tire maintenance is important to ensure your safety on the road and to extend the life of your tires. Properly maintained tires can also improve fuel efficiency and reduce the risk of blowouts.
How often should I check my tire pressure?
It is recommended that you check your tire pressure at least once a month or before long trips. Proper tire pressure can improve fuel efficiency and extend the life of your tires.
What is the recommended tire pressure for my vehicle?
The recommended tire pressure can usually be found in your vehicle’s owner manual or on the tire information placard located on the driver’s side doorjamb. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal performance and safety.
How do I check my tire tread depth?
You can check your tire tread depth using a tread depth gauge or by performing the penny test. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.
How often should I rotate my tires?
It is recommended that you rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure even wear and extend the life of your tires.
How do I know if my tires are out of balance?
Signs of an out-of-balance tire include uneven wear, vibration, and steering wheel wobble. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your tires balanced to prevent further damage.
How can I protect my tires from UV damage?
To protect your tires from UV damage, park your vehicle in a shaded area whenever possible and use tire covers when storing your vehicle for extended periods of time.
Can I repair a punctured tire?
In most cases, punctured tires can be repaired if the damage is not too severe and is located in the tread area. However, it’s important to have a professional assess the damage to determine if a repair is possible.
How can I extend the life of my tires?
You can extend the life of your tires by maintaining proper tire pressure, rotating your tires regularly, keeping your wheels properly aligned, avoiding overloading your vehicle, and driving carefully to prevent excessive wear and tear.
When should I replace my tires?
It’s important to replace your tires when they are worn down to the minimum tread depth, which is typically 2/32 of an inch. Additionally, if your tires are damaged or have been in service for more than six years, it’s recommended that you replace them even if the tread depth is still adequate.
How does maintaining tire pressure prevent wear?
Proper tire inflation helps in even weight distribution across the tire’s tread, promoting uniform wear. Additionally, it assists in maintaining your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency. Check your owner’s manual or consult a professional to find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle, and remember to inspect the pressure levels regularly.
Can aligning and balancing my tires reduce wear?
Yes, alignment and balancing are essential in reducing tire wear. Improper alignment causes uneven and accelerated wear on the tires, leading to a shorter lifespan. Tire balancing helps to distribute the weight evenly, ensuring that tires wear consistently. To prevent wear and tear, have your tires checked for alignment and balanced during routine maintenance.
How do driving habits affect tire wear and tear?
Driving habits play a significant role in tire wear and tear. Some factors that contribute to increased wear include:
-
- Aggressive driving: Hard acceleration, sudden braking, and sharp turns can cause rapid and uneven tire wear.
- Excessive speed: Driving at high speeds increases the heat generated by the tires, leading to faster degradation.
- Overloading your vehicle: Carrying excess weight places additional stress on the tires, accelerating wear and decreasing their lifespan. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended load limits.