Getting a flat tire is a frustrating experience, especially if you don’t know how to change a tire or have roadside assistance coverage. While it’s difficult to anticipate when your tires will give out, there are steps you can take to extend their life span. The following guide can help you take better care of your tires to prevent potential issues.

A Guide to Flat Tire Prevention

1. Rotate the Tires

Have a mechanic rotate your vehicle’s tires every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. This will ensure the tread wears evenly on all sides.

Wearing the tread evenly ensures each tire maintains good contact with the surface of the road. This will help improve your fuel efficiency, allowing you to get more miles per gallon. When your mechanic rotates the tires, they should also evaluate the tread to determine if any tires need replacing.

2. Avoid Hazardous Roads

Driving on roads with construction sites, potholes, or debris in the streets can lead to tire damage. These conditions can also negatively impact your vehicle’s frame and suspension. It may take a few extra minutes to take an alternate route, but doing so will help you keep your tires and vehicle in better condition.

3. Check Tire Pressure Regularly 

Check each tire’s pressure at least once per month. Compare the pressure to the tire manufacturer’s specifications, which are found on the outside wall of each tire. The recommended tire pressure for your vehicle can also be found on a sticker on the inside of your driver’s side door.

Air pressure can increase or decrease 1 psi for every 10 degrees the outdoor temperature fluctuates. Check your tire pressure more frequently in extreme heat and winter conditions. Most passenger cars will recommend 32 to 35 psi. Be careful not to overfill your tires, since this can be just as damaging as low air pressure.

4. Inspect the Brakes

Have your brakes checked regularly to ensure they remain in good condition. Brake pads that are worn down can cause greater wear on the tires. Over time, this will put the tires at a greater risk of becoming flat. Keeping your brakes in good condition will also improve your vehicle’s stopping power, helping to keep you and other drivers safe on the road.

Whether you have a flat tire or another roadside emergency, trust the team at Cogswell Towing to provide you with fast and skilled auto services. These professionals are backed by 71 years of service and serve drivers throughout Russellville, Danville, and Morrilton, AR. Their service personnel is continuously training to learn about the latest technological advancements in the automotive industry. Learn more about their services online. Call (479) 968-4665 for towing and roadside assistance.