Tires are an important part of any vehicle, and proper tire maintenance is essential to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly. However, there are some common mistakes that motorists make when it comes to taking care of their tires, which can lead to significant damage and even dangerous situations. In order to keep your tires in the best condition possible, it is important to be aware of what is not considered proper tire maintenance.
Failure to Check Tire Pressure
One of the most important things that you can do for your tires is to make sure that they are properly inflated. Tire pressure should be checked on a regular basis and should be adjusted to the manufacturer’s recommended level. Failure to check your tire pressure can cause your tires to wear unevenly and can lead to a decrease in fuel economy. In addition, underinflated tires can lead to blowouts, which can be dangerous and costly to repair.
Failure to Rotate Tires
Another important part of tire maintenance is to make sure that your tires are rotated on a regular basis. Regularly rotating your tires helps to ensure that the wear is distributed evenly across all four tires. This can help to extend the life of your tires and save you money in the long run. In addition, it is important to make sure that your tires are properly balanced, which helps to reduce vibration and noise while you are driving.
Overloading the Vehicle
When loading up your vehicle for a trip, it is important to make sure that you are not exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit. Overloading your vehicle can cause excessive strain on the tires, which can lead to premature tire wear and even tire failure. In addition, overloading can cause your vehicle to become unbalanced and can lead to an unsafe driving experience.
Ignoring Tire Damage
It is important to check your tires regularly for any signs of damage. If you notice any cuts, bulges, or other signs of damage, it is important to have the tire inspected and repaired as soon as possible. Ignoring tire damage can lead to tire failure, which can be dangerous and costly to repair.
Using Old Tires
Tires have a limited lifetime, and it is important to make sure that you are replacing your tires when they become worn out. Many people make the mistake of trying to get as much life out of their tires as possible, but this can be dangerous. Worn out tires can cause poor handling, decreased fuel economy, and an increased risk of a tire blowout. It is important to check the tread depth of your tires regularly and replace them when they become too worn.
Failing to Inspect the Wheels
It is also important to make sure that you are inspecting your wheels on a regular basis. Wheels can become bent or cracked over time, which can lead to poor handling and decreased fuel economy. In addition, damaged wheels can cause tire wear and can even lead to a tire blowout.