Keep On Rollin’ – Tire Safety

Keeping your tires properly inflated and in the best condition is more important to your safety than you may realize. Under inflated tires result in worse handling overall, which you of course need the best of when it comes to making a quick maneuver. And what’s more is that you’ll be in more danger of slipping and sliding around in poor, snowy weather, such as we experienced today in parts of Michigan. Be sure to check out my older article on winter driving tips and how you should handle driving in those conditions.

Here’s a few tips on how to check and fill your tires with air:

• Most cars have a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door with the proper amount of air (PSI) you should have in each tire. You can also find this in the owner’s manual. Pay attention to this info. For my car, its 30 PSI. Generally, I put a little more in (5 PSI approximately). This is just to be safe. However, don’t overinflate your tires since this can result in a rough ride and an equally unsafe experience.

• Don’t assume your tire is flat by just looking at it. Actually take the time to measure the amount of air that’s in them, as it changes with the weather. Most newer cars make this easier and have built-in tire-pressure monitors, although if you prefer the old-fashioned approach, you can also purchase a tire-pressure gauge from your local auto parts store relatively cheap (from $5 to $30 depending on the type).

• Check your air pressure before going on any major trips. This may seem obvious to many, but it will save you time and potentially money too. You may notice that your tires give you a different reading in the morning than in the evening. This is because, again, the pressure in them changes with the weather and after you’ve been driving around for some time. Remember that your tires are black in coloration, and black attracts heat.

• If any of your tires are missing a cap (the tip that covers the stem where air is put into the tire), replace it ASAP! Especially if it’s coming up on the winter months where you live! I just did this for one of the tires on my car. The reason you want to knock this out is because if water gets in the valve stem and freezes, it can cause a flat.

Now here’s a few tips on how to know when it’s time to REPLACE your tires:

• The coin test! Insert a coin, such as a penny, into a groove on your tires and see if you can see the top of the head on the coin. If you can’t, you’re good. If you can, it’s time to start looking for new tires.

• Look for tread wear indicators on the tires. If the ribs that run across your tire are worn down, then you know it’s about time to replace that tire.

• Sidewall damage cannot be repaired and is serious. You want to get these tires replaced IMMEDIATELY, as a blowout can result from damage to a sidewall. Also, have your car checked out for any other potential issues.

• Uneven wear! This points to misalignments or a bad suspension on the car, which you likely would notice in your ride quality anyways. Get your tires replaced and your car serviced as well at the same time to prevent further damage to your new set of tires.

So overall, tire safety shouldn’t be overlooked. Especially when it comes to situations such as bad weather. Properly inflated tires result in a smoother, safer, more economical ride and save your wallet in the long run. Next time you plan a road trip or any other major adventure, be sure your car is up to the task by not only topping off all your fluids, but by making sure your tires are in order as well.

Until next time, ROLL ON! (Pun intended this time.)

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