Tire service is essential in auto maintenance. Well maintained tires will improve your fuel economy, give you better traction, and last longer. The maintenance tasks below are relatively simple efforts that will go a long way.

Tire Service & Maintenance Guide

1. Monthly Inspection & Filling

Inspect your tires for signs of damage once a month. Causes for concern include cracks along the sidewall, dented rims, foreign objects in the tread, and uneven tread wear. Take your car to an auto repair shop immediately if you see signs of damage. The best time to check tire air pressure is when the vehicle hasn’t been driven for at least six hours; the tires are then “cold” and will give an accurate reading. Fill or let out air as necessary to keep the pounds per square inch (PSI) within the range listed on the tire.

2. Tire Rotations

Have your tires rotated every 5,000 miles, or whenever the oil is changed. Your auto mechanic will move the tires to different locations on the vehicle. This is important since some tire locations hold most of the weight. For example, the rear tires wear faster on a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Rotating them will cause them to wear out at the same rate and thus last longer.  

3. Wheel Balancing

Also, have the wheels balanced when you take it in for tire service. The mechanic will take the wheel off the car and place it on a specialized machine with weights. This evenly distributes the wheel’s weight so your wheels won’t vibrate, which will eliminate uneven wear.

When you need a professional to inspect your tires, take your vehicle to F.A.T.S. Service in Anchorage, AK. This team of ASE-certified mechanics has been serving drivers in the area since 1984 and is committed to total customer satisfaction. They can handle anything from your routine schedule tire service to emergency repairs. See their full list of auto parts services online and call (907) 561-5721 to request a free estimate.