Tires—you can’t live without them! That’s why taking care of, aligning and buying the right tires is so important. Your tires need to remain in top shape to keep your vehicle on the road longer. After all, they affect your overall driving experience, fuel efficiency and safety. Additionally, taking care of your tires will save you money in the long run.
Today, we will discuss tips to maximize tire longevity. From maintenance tips to wheel misalignment and smart buying tips, we can help. Let’s get into it!
Tire Maintenance Tips
Like the other parts of your vehicle, your tires need to be taken care of. By establishing a maintenance routine, you can take care of your tires for longer. Opt for the following services:
Tire Rotation
You should get all four of your tires rotated regularly. When you don’t rotate your tires, the front ones that bear the majority of your vehicle’s weight wear out faster. This leads to replacing your tires sooner, costing you even more money. Rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 kilometres for even wear.
Proper Tire Inflation
The correct tire pressure is essential when it comes to extending the lifespan of your tires. When tires are overinflated or underinflated, they will wear out unevenly, which can affect the overall performance of your vehicle. Consider using a tire pressure gauge monthly. This will allow you to adjust your tires based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Tire Balancing
Unbalanced tires can spell trouble. This can lead to uneven wear, which can lead to a rougher ride and reduce the lifespan of your tires. Balancing your tires will promote even wear, which makes for a smoother ride and longer lifespan.
Tire Cleaning and Protection
Clean tires look great! Additionally, when you clean your tires, it helps maintain the integrity of the rubber. By cleaning your tires regularly, you are scrubbing away dirt, brake dust and other debris that can result in premature wear. Applying a tire protectant prevents the rubber from cracking due to UV rays and ozone exposure.
A basic tire maintenance routine can make a huge difference. It preserves your tires and helps you save money by delaying the need for replacement. In addition to maintaining your tires, ensure they are properly aligned. If issues arise, tire repair and replacement may be necessary to keep your vehicle running smoothly. We will dive into the signs of wheel misalignment next.
Spotting Signs of Wheel Misalignment
Sometimes, it’s best to spot the problem before it gets worse. By recognizing signs of wheel misalignment, you can save yourself a lot of money. This issue happens when the angles of the wheels are not set correctly, resulting in uneven tire wear, poor handling and safety hazards. Watch out for the following signs:
Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear
Tires suffer wear and tear over time. While it’s bound to happen, you don’t want one side of your tires to wear faster than another. When this happens, it’s a telltale sign of misalignment. Misaligned tires tend to scrub against the road’s surface and wear out faster than their aligned counterparts.
Vehicle Pulling Off to One Side
When you’re driving straight, your vehicle shouldn’t be pulling off to one side. If this is happening, you might start to worry. This is also a sign of misaligned wheels. You have to be careful because this won’t just cause uneven tire wear. It can also be considered a safety hazard for you and other drivers.
Vibrations or Steering Wheel Misalignment
Your steering wheel should be still and centered. If you notice your steering vibrating or sitting off-center, your wheels might be misaligned. Oftentimes, this is a sign that your wheels are misaligned. When this happens, driving can feel uncomfortable and your tires may wear out sooner.
Squealing Tires
Tires shouldn’t squeal if you aren’t a racecar driver! If you notice a squealing noise while turning or driving at high speeds, your tire might need to be realigned. If the issue persists, it could be time for tire installation to ensure optimal performance. It’s best to address this issue sooner rather than later to prevent further tire damage.
By checking for signs of wheel misalignment, you can have it corrected sooner rather than later. This will extend the lifespan of your tires and improve your vehicle’s performance. In addition to protecting your tires, you need to buy the right ones. We will provide tips in the next section.
Smart Buying Tips for Tires
Every vehicle is different and so are their tires! By choosing the right tires for your vehicle, you help them last longer and help your vehicle perform better. Here’s our advice to help you shop smarter:
Consider Tire Type
We all suffer through Calgary’s bitter cold winters. That’s why you need to choose the right type of tire for your driving conditions. Winter tires are specifically designed for icy and snowy conditions, providing better grip and safety. All-season tires work well in milder conditions, but for optimal performance, a seasonal tire change is recommended to ensure your vehicle handles well year-round. Always choose the right tire based on the weather outside and the driving conditions.
Quality vs. Price
The cheapest tires aren’t the best tires. They tend to wear out quicker than their pricier counterparts, which can lead to additional replacement costs. Premium tires tend to last longer, offer additional safety features and perform better than their counterparts.
Proper Size and Fit
There are many different tire sizes. Your tires shouldn’t be too small or too large for your vehicle. If they are, it can result in poor performance and a shorter lifespan. Review the manufacturer’s tire size recommendations to find the right fit for your vehicle.
Tire Warranties
Never overlook the warranties on your tires. The majority of tire manufacturers can protect you in the event of defects or premature wear. Before you buy new tires, check the warranty details. By keeping track of maintenance schedules, you can ensure your warranty is still valid.
Be careful when you purchase new tires. Don’t choose your tires based on price alone or they will wear out sooner rather than later. Additionally, choosing the type and size of tire can result in premature wear and reduced vehicle performance. Lastly, when you buy new tires, always check your warranties.
Maximize Tire Longevity and Drive Safer!
By following our advice, you can make your tires last longer, improve your vehicle’s performance and save money over time. Regular maintenance and wheel alignment also help. Need help purchasing new tires? My Calgary Mechanic has your back. Our team will assist you with all your tire needs.
Want new tires that are built to last? Contact us today!
