Obviously, our cars need tires in order to operate. Regardless of if we’re driving during a beautiful spring day in Tennessee, or a snowstorm in Colorado, our tires play a huge role. However, tires can get costly, and they all seem similar. We can’t forget, though, that the only element that stands between your car and the road is your tires. That said, we all want to get the most out of our tires. Continue reading to learn some ways to protect and maintain your tires.
Drive responsibly
Everybody has experienced that person who drives like a jerk. They’re speeding, slamming on their brakes, cutting people off, and they seem to think they’re better than everyone else. However, the joke’s on them, because driving this way is not only dangerous and foolish, but it’s also awful for your tires. Hard acceleration and braking can result in your tire overheating and breaking down—that’s also how tire blowouts occur.
Check your tire pressure
Your tires need the appropriate amount of air to handle your vehicle correctly. If your tires are underinflated, you could obviously get a flat tire, but your tires could also overheat, resulting in tread damage and early wear and tear. Alternatively, if your tires are overinflated, the outer walls of your tire will become much firmer and be prone to blowouts. Additionally, an overinflated tire can result in decreased traction, which can cause accidents.
Keep your tires clean
Many don’t realize that driving through country roads throughout Tennessee can negatively impact your tires. For instance, if dirt, mud, or gravel were to build up on your tires, it can essentially “eat away” at your tire. Additionally, gravel and rough terrains increase your risk of getting a minor hole in your tire. On the other hand, if you’re already driving on worn-out tires, you have a higher risk of a blowout.
Monitor wear and tear
You should periodically check your tires and see how the tires are wearing. There are several things you can keep an eye out for. First, check your treads. Many people like to use a penny to check their tread––if the tread covers Lincoln’s head, you’re in good shape. Second, you should check for uneven wearing. If you see one side of the tire is wearing heavier than the other, you may need an alignment or tire rotation.
Of course, even if you follow all the right steps to protect and maintain your tires, they’ll wear down eventually and you’re going to need new tires. However, your tires also shouldn’t completely break the bank. Luckily, there are tire shops that offer high-quality tires at a fair price in Chattanooga, TN.
