When it comes to car maintenance, we are diligent in changing our oil, replacing our windshield wiper blades, and noticing any dents and scrapes. Unfortunately, many drivers neglect their tires even though they play a crucial role in safety and navigation. Here are four tire care do’s and don’ts to keep them in top shape.

Do:

Check the Treads 

If you’ve had the same set of tires for over a year, it’s time to check the treads. It’s essential that the treads are adequately deep or they won’t offer enough traction to keep you moving on the road during rainstorms or snowstorms. To assess the tread depth, place a penny into the grooves with the crown of Lincoln’s head facing the center of the wheel. If you can see all of his head, the tire is worn, and you should consider getting a replacement.

Rotate the Tires

Read the car owner manual to learn how often they recommend rotating the tires. During this car maintenance process, mechanics will move the wheels to a different position on the car, so they wear more evenly. Most vehicles require tire rotation every six months or 6,000 – 8,000 miles.

Don’t:

Forget to Fill Up the Spare

Many people forget to add air to their spare tire and don’t realize it until they get a flat. Whenever you fill-up the tires, make sure also to check the pressure on the extra to ensure it’s ready for use. Your vehicle likely has a note on the inside of the driver's door stating the correct PSI – parts per square inch – to follow when filling up. Keeping the spare inflated will ensure that you aren't stranded in the event of a flat tire.

Transport Too-Heavy Items

Moving a load that is too heavy, can place undue strain on the tires and potentially make them pop. This explosion can cause a crash, so it’s essential to avoid overloading the vehicle by staying under the maximum load capacity. Find this number in your owner’s manual or on the tire load index, which is listed on the sidewall of the tire near the air pressure information.

Vehicle owners looking for professional repairs and car maintenance should visit All Around Auto Care Inc in Hardin County, KY. The mechanics have been in business for over 12 years, and their well-trained technicians offer honest, efficient service. Call the Elizabethtown-area car maintenance and repair team at (270) 737-9954 or visit the website for information on their care programs, towing options, and free estimates.