While winter is known as the season when you need to pay attention to your tires, summer can be perilous for them as well. Because summer is a time when many people go on long drives and road trips, it’s especially important to examine your tires. Here’s a closer look at how the warm weather can impact these key parts of your vehicle. 

What Is the Impact of Summer on Tires?

As the temperature rises during the summer, it will have a marked effect on the air pressure inside your tires. Since hot air expands, you can expect an increase of one pound of pressure within the wheel for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. That extra pressure can quickly make your tires dangerously overinflated. That’s why you should regularly check your tires to maintain the proper pressure. You can usually find the ideal tire PSI in your owner’s manual or printed along the rim of the wheel. 

How Does That Affect Safety?

Having overinflated tires is not a minor problem that you can ignore indefinitely. Due to overinflation, less of the tread’s surface area will make contact with the road, causing extra wear. Over time, this can make it challenging to steer or brake properly.

That extra pressure also puts you at serious risk of a blowout. The friction of the rubber meeting the road generates heat at high temperatures. This heat combined with the extra pressure inside the wheel can lead to holes and weak spots in the rubber tread. By maintaining the proper PSI, you will drive with added peace of mind and stay safe on the road.

If your tread is worn down, head right over to a top auto specialist like Lee Tire in Lexington, KY. For over 20 years, their professionals have provided swift repairs and outfitted loyal customers with new tires from elite manufacturers like Michelin® and Goodyear®. To set up an appointment with the skilled crew, call (859) 254-6157. Learn more about the other brands the shop carries by visiting their website.