Keeping Your Tires In Great Shape
Your vehicle's tires are one of the most important parts your car needs to be safe and efficient. If something happens to them, the rest of the vehicle is at risk for additional repair. Here are some maintenance tips you can use to keep your tires in good shape and avoid additional work on your vehicle in the process.
Tire Pressure
Keep your tires inflated to the recommended tire pressure as listed in your vehicle manual. If you keep less air in your tires, your vehicle might start to pull to one side while you are driving. Over-inflated tires will put you at risk for a blowout on the highway. When your tires are filled to the proper inflation, they will allow your vehicle to use gas more efficiently. Make sure to check your tire pressure every few weeks to keep your tires working properly.
Wheel Alignment
If you hit a pothole or an object, your tires may be knocked out of alignment. They will not be point in a straight direction, and you may notice them wearing at a very fast rate if you do not get your vehicle checked. Anytime you hit something, you should bring your vehicle in to your mechanic for a wheel alignment. If you fail to do so, you may need to visit a suspension service shop, like Spring Suspension & Alignment Services. The alignment of your vehicle can affect the steering and the suspension because they all rely on each other to keep your vehicle driving straight. If the alignment is off, other parts will start to deteriorate.
Tire Rotation
Rotating your tires can also help keep them from wearing too quickly. You will want to swap the front left and right tire with each other and then do the same for the back left and right tire. When you purchase a new set of tires, you will often be told to come back in for tire rotations at no cost. Doing your tire rotations on schedule will help keep the warranty of your tires in tact, as well as keep your tires performing their best.
Balancing
If you need to place a new tire on your vehicle, you will want to have it balanced so the weight is the same as the alternate tire. Sometimes using different brands will give you tires of different weights. The weight should be evenly distributed on each side of your vehicle for the best performance.
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