One of the keys to roadway safety is the condition of your tires, but many issues are unpreventable. Before experiencing any mishaps and visiting a tire dealer for a new set, you should regularly check on the condition of tread wear. Uneven erosion can cause everything from the need for premature replacement to a catastrophic blowout on the road. To prevent this deterioration, consider the following list of factors that contribute to uneven tire wear.

What Causes Uneven Tire Wear?

1. Improper Inflation

Most drivers have encountered a low tire pressure notification at some point or another. However, while tires should be adequately inflated, you should also prevent overinflation. Under-inflated tires will be concave, so the center of the tires rise off the ground and the edges wear down faster. Over-inflated tires will be convex, so the center of the wheel wears faster than the edges. Ask your tire dealer the exact degree of pressure to which your tires should be inflated.

2. Tire Alignment

If your tires were installed out of alignment or shifted that way overtime, your wheels may also wear unevenly. During a professional tire alignment, a technician will determine whether your wheels are “toe in” (meaning the front ends of the two back or front tires are facing away from each other) or “toe out” (vice versa). For even wear and optimal maneuverability, your tires should be parallel to one another.

3. Suspension Trouble

The suspension system is responsible for minimizing the jolting motion that occurs when your car moves over dips and bumps in the road. It does this by slightly separating the body from the wheels and axles. If the suspension is bent or worn, it could cause a diagonal striping along your tires, sometimes called cupping.

If you believe your tires need to be rotated, realigned, or replaced, visit Oak Hollow Tire Car Care Center of High Point, NC. This auto repair company and tire dealer is proud to help drivers stay safe on the road by providing everything from brake service to tire replacements. For more information on their services, visit the website or call (336) 841-6553 to speak to a friendly tire dealer. You can also find them on Facebook.