Maintaining and replacing your tires is an inescapable part of car ownership. However, there are a few simple things that you can change about the way you drive to prolong the life of your tires. Whether you want to maximize the lifespan of new tires or get some extra miles out of an older set, this guide will help you avoid poor driving habits that can harm your tires. 

What Driving Habits Can Harm Your Tires? 

1. Abrupt Movements 

Swiftly starting, stopping, or turning can quickly wear down new tires and put unnecessary strain on old ones. These abrupt transitions break down the tread on your tires and weaken the rubber. Every once in a while you may have to start, stop, or turn quickly to avoid an accident.

However, if you see tread marks on the asphalt following a routine turn or change in speed, it’s a sign that you should slow down to spare your tires. 

2. Heavy Loads

New tires will rapidly wear down under the strain of a heavy load. Every car has a maximum weight, which can be exceeded if you load the vehicle with too many items or people.

Towing items like trailers or boats can also put unnecessary strain on your tires if you aren’t careful. Under too much weight, your tires may overheat or become overpressurized. Both issues are hazardous and can cause tires to pop. 

3. Rough Roads 

From time to time, you’ll run into potential road hazards like potholes, rocks, loose gravel, and steel plates. It’s critical to drive safely and slowly around these obstacles. Approaching any road hazard at a high speed can cause tire blowouts, tears, or punctures. Even if you don’t have a catastrophic tire failure due to an obstacle, your tires still take a beating when you don’t navigate road hazards with care. 

4. Fast Driving

Fast driving can lead to dangerous car problems. At high speeds, your tires generate large amounts of friction on the road, which causes heat. Heat may soften and degrade the tire rubber over time. Driving at the normal road and highway speeds shouldn’t cause harm, so stick to posted speeds if you want long-lasting tires. 

If one or more tires have been damaged, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. M & C Tire has served the Kalispell, MT, area since 1979. This tire and wheel business offers new tire installations as well as alignments and rotations. Their knowledgeable team is eager to help customers throughout Kalispell, White Fish, Columbia Falls, Big Fork, Lakeside, and Somers. Call (406) 752-9662 today to set an appointment or see their services online.