Driving every day will wear your tires out at an accelerated rate, so performing regular maintenance is essential. If you fail to do so, you’ll need tire repair services more frequently and be more at risk of a dangerous blowout. Keep your tires road-ready by following these do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Keep them properly inflated.

Regularly check the tires’ air pressure. The PSI fluctuates with regular usage and changes in outdoor temperatures, so check it at least once a week. Many vehicles now provide a digital display of the internal PSI, but if yours does not, you can check it manually.

Keeping the PSI at the tire manufacturer’s recommended level ensures they all wear down evenly. If they’re under-inflated, the vehicle becomes more difficult to control. Too much air causes uneven wear and makes blowouts more likely.

Check the tire tread.

The tire tread allows a vehicle to grip the road safely. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends testing the tread on tires at least once a month. Ideally, it should be at least 2/32 of an inch deep.

To check the tread depth, place a penny headfirst into the grooves on each tire. If part of Lincoln’s head is obscured by the tread, then the tires are safe. If his entire head is visible, it’s time to replace them.

Don’t:

Forget to rotate and balance the tires.

Most experts recommend rotating and balancing the tires at least once every six months or 6,000 to 8,000 miles. For optimal results, consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.

This simple maintenance tip prolongs the tires’ lives by having them wear down evenly. It also helps protect you from slipping or skidding while driving because of worn treads.

Overload the vehicle.

Every vehicle and set of tires come with a maximum load capacity, and you should never exceed that number. Driving an overloaded vehicle puts extra strain on your tires. They’ll wear down more quickly, and the cords in the sidewall might begin to unravel, especially in hotter environments. If you continue to drive with too much weight, the tires might overheat and burst.

Keep your vehicle safe by scheduling tire repairs with the experts at Gomes Bus Fleet Maintenance. This locally owned and operated full-service auto shop uses state-of-the-art equipment to provide fast and reliable repairs for drivers in Kaneohe, HI, and throughout Oahu. Schedule an appointment by calling (808) 239-6755, or visit their website for more information on their capabilities.