There are few things more annoying than having to buy new tires for your car, especially when it happens sooner than you expected. The dealership rates their tires as having a 60,000-mile lifespan. Yet, by the time you reach 40,000, they are already telling you it's time for new ones!
We've all been here. The truth is those original tire mileage ratings are only somewhat accurate if you take perfect care of your wheels, tires, brakes, suspension, transmission and every other system that affects your tire treads. This is easier said than done for most drivers, who really don't think about their tires until they become a problem.
The good news is there are a few simple steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your tires. Here are 6 tips from Fox Run Auto:
1. Get Your Tires Rotated
No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, the tires should be rotated every 5,000-6,000 miles—usually along with each oil change. If you don't drive your car as often, you may just want to make it a habit of getting them rotated every six months or so. As you drive, the tire treads will always wear out unevenly from tire to tire. Rotating them helps even out the tread wear and keep them all lasting longer.
2. Check Your Air Pressure
You should make it a point to check the air pressure on all four tires regularly—at least once a month, if not once a week! Proper air pressure will improve the overall performance and durability of the tires. You don't want them underinflated or overinflated. Keep them at the recommended air pressure.
3. Measure the Tread Depth
When you check your air pressure, you can also take a look at the tread depth. You can buy an inexpensive tread measuring tool at any auto parts store, or you can give the penny test a try. Stick a penny upside-down in the deepest tire tread. If there is any space between the top of the tread and Lincoln's head, it means your treads are getting dangerously low.
4. Take Care of Flat Tires and Leaks
Flat tires happen, and so can pinhole leaks. If you know one of your tires has a leak or is damaged in anyway, get it looked at and repaired by a tire expert. They may be able to patch it, or they may recommend replacing the tire. Either way, you don't want that one bad tire to negatively affect the other three, so you should address it as soon as you can.
5. Get Your Wheels Aligned
Wheel alignment is also crucial to tire life. Keeping your wheels properly aligned helps keep the tread wear more even and thus will help extend the lifespan of your tires.
6. Take Care of Your Brakes and Suspension
As we noted earlier, there are many systems throughout your vehicle that can impact the loads put on each of your four tires. The brakes and suspension are absolutely the most important. Healthy brakes and suspension components will help reduce the overall wear and tear put on your tires.
These are just a few tips to help you get the most life out of your tires. If you are having tire problems or are in need of other automotive maintenance like a brake service, oil change or tire rotation, Fox Run Auto is here to help. Call us today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online.