The Importance of Maintaining Your Tires

Did you know Christmas is less than 100 days away? Did that just blow your mind? It won’t be long before we are planning those holiday road trips and long weekends. Just like any other time, if you are going to be doing a lot of traveling you want to make sure your vehicle is prepared. Here at Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC, we know that tires are one the most important parts of your vehicle and proper maintenance is vital. Caring properly for your tires will increase their lifespan, save you money at the gas pump, and keep you safer on the road. In this week’s blog, your Lake of the Ozarks car dealership has some tips on maintaining your vehicle's tires.

Maintaining Your Tires

Proper tire maintenance is important in extending the life of your tires. If you are driving anywhere from 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year, the average set of tires can last up to three to four years, however, if they are not properly maintained, it will impact this lifespan. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your tires.

Keep Tires Properly Inflated

It is important to keep your tires properly inflated. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, vehicles driving on underinflated tires by more than 25 percent are three times more likely to be involved in a crash related to tire problems. Tires that are underinflated by up to 25 percent run risk of overheating, which can lead to failure and will drastically affect vehicle handling and the lifespan of the tires.

Inspect Your Tires

Because it's important to keep your tires inflated, the tire pressure should be checked regularly. When checking the tire pressure, take this time to also check the condition of the tires. Look for any cracks, lumps, bubbles or uneven wear. Unusual wear is often a sign of another issue. The vehicle alignment could be off, or tires could be off-balance if you notice uneven wear and you should have the vehicle inspected by Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC.

Rotating Tires 

Having the tires rotated regularly can ensure the tires wear evenly and lengthen the lifespan as well. Tires typically need to be rotated every 6,000 miles and most newer GM vehicle recommends an oil change every 6,000 miles, so this makes it easy for you to schedule a tire rotation at every oil change visit.

Signs It Might Be Time for New Tires

Inspecting your tires often is one of the most important parts of proper tire maintenance. Inspecting your tires can tell you a lot about your car, such as certain wear can let you know your alignment is off or if your shocks are failing. Here are a few common signs of when it's time to replace your tires.



Tread Depth

The tread on your tires should never fall below 1/16 of an inch in depth. The best way to test the depth of your tires is with the tried and true "penny method." Place a penny upside down with Lincoln's head towards the tire, if you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time for a new set of tires.

Cracks, Gouges or Bulges

When a tire doesn't have enough air, it tends to bulge at the sides. If you find yourself constantly filling up one tire, there may be a slow leak. If your tires have a lot of wear and tear, it could be time to just replace them.

Vibration While Driving

Some vibration while driving is normal, however, too much may mean something is not right. Vibration can be caused by several issues including misalignment, bad shocks or internal tire issues. Our Camdenton Service Department can help you determine the issues and let you know if it is time to replace your tires.

Bring Your Car to Hulett’s For All Your Service Needs

Your tires are important and regular inspection and maintenance are key to getting the most out of your tires and keeping you safe. Our Camdenton certified service center can help keep your vehicle on the road. No matter if you need your vehicle’s tires rotated, or you are looking for the right tires for your ride, Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC is here to help.


Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC - That's The Way We Do It At Hulett!

513 N. Business Route 5
Camdenton, MO  65020

Sales: 573.317.4191
Service:  573.317.4195

Follow Us on Social Media: 






Comments

Popular posts from this blog

5 Reasons Your Check Engine Light Is On

What's Included In A 27-Point Vehicle Inspection?

Thanksgiving Dinners at the Lake of the Ozarks