Let tire wear run its course and you could end up spending more on gas, buying new tires sooner, and dealing with a tire failure when you least expect. Use these four tips to cut down on tire wear and help your tires live their best life!
Get your wheels aligned.
Maintain the correct tire pressure.
When your tires are consistently over or underinflated, they can wear down unevenly. An over inflated tire can wear down the center (below, left) and an underinflated tire can wear on both shoulders (below, right). When your tires wear down in either way, their lifespan decreases. Find your recommended tire pressure and check it monthly. Remember, improper tire pressure is typically not visible to the naked eye, so it’s best to check with a high-quality pressure gauge or bring your car by a local Tires Plus. We're happy to check your tire pressure for free.
Rotate your tires.
Your tires wear down differently depending on where they are mounted on your vehicle. Have your tires regularly rotated (moved to a different spot on the vehicle) to help make sure they wear down more evenly and that you get the most life out of your tires. Diagonal tire wear is often a sign that you're overdue for a rotation and alignment. Routine tire rotations can also help increase fuel efficiency and performance, so it’s a win-win!
Drive slower.
Speed demons beware: tire wear increases as speed increases. The faster your car goes, the harder your tires have to work. If you’re serious about cutting down on tire wear this winter, ease up on the accelerator. This tip is also important for safe winter driving, so it’s smart to do regardless!
Whether you’re switching to winter tires before the year’s first snowfall or you just need a quick check-up, the Tires Plus technicians are there for you. Make an appointment at your local Tires Plus for an alignment and rotation today, and we’ll make sure your tire pressure is accurate, as well.
