Tire Service and Care: Extending the Life of Your Tires

Car getting repaired

Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

Keeping the right amount of air in your tires is important. Underinflated tires wear out faster on the edges and use more fuel. Overinflated tires wear out in the centre and may not handle well. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Use a tire pressure gauge for an accurate reading. You can find the correct pressure in your vehicle’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Always check pressure when the tires are cold, not after driving. The heat from driving increases the air pressure inside, giving a false reading. Proper tire pressure helps tires last longer and makes your car safer to drive.

Pumping air into Tire

Rotate Your Tires Regularly

Tires wear at different rates depending on their position. For example, front tires wear faster because they handle steering and more weight. Rotating tires move them to different positions to even out the wear. Most cars need tire rotation every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Your vehicle manual will tell you the best rotation pattern. You can schedule tire rotation when you get an oil change to make it easier to remember. This simple step can make your tires last much longer.

The Role of Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is about making sure your tires are angled correctly when they touch the road. If the alignment is off, tires wear unevenly. This can make your car pull to one side and use more fuel. You might need an alignment check if your car drifts to one side or if the steering wheel isn’t straight when you drive. Bad alignment can happen if you hit a pothole or curb. Getting it fixed helps your tires last longer and makes your car easier to control.

Mechanic Fixing Tire

Driving Habits That Save Your Tires

How you drive affects how long your tires last. Driving gently is better for your tires. Avoid sudden braking, quick starts, and hard turns. For example, slow down gradually when approaching a stoplight instead of hitting the brakes hard. Taking turns at moderate speeds also reduces tire stress. Gentle driving keeps your tires in good shape and improves fuel efficiency.

Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

Every vehicle has a limit on how much weight it can carry. You can find this information in the vehicle manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Carrying too much weight puts extra pressure on your tires, causing them to wear out faster or even fail. If you are moving heavy items, make sure to spread the weight evenly. Avoid carrying unnecessary loads. This reduces the strain on your tires and helps them last longer.

Seasonal Tire Care

Tires work differently in hot and cold weather. In winter, switch to winter tires if you live in snowy or icy areas. These tires are made for better grip in low temperatures. In summer, check tire pressure more often. Hot weather can cause the air inside the tires to expand, leading to overinflation. Seasonal tire care helps your tires perform better and last longer.

Tire getting stuck in snow

Storing Tires Correctly

If you use seasonal tires or have a spare set, store them properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from heat or chemicals. Avoid direct sunlight, which can damage the rubber. Store tires upright if you have space. If not, lay them flat but avoid stacking them for long periods. Use tire covers or bags to protect them from dust and moisture. Proper storage keeps your tires in good condition when not in use.

Stay Updated on Tire Recalls

Sometimes tire companies recall certain models because of safety problems. Register your tires with the manufacturer to get updates about recalls. This way, you can replace faulty tires quickly if needed. For example, a recall might happen if a tire is found to have a defect that could cause a blowout. Staying informed keeps you and your passengers safe.

Trusted Tire Services for Long-Lasting Performance

At Clayton’s Automotive, we know how important tire care is for your safety and your vehicle’s performance. We have over 40 years of experience in auto repair. Our team is skilled in all types of tire services, including inspections, rotations, alignments, and flat tire repairs. Our shop is family-owned and located in Naples, Utah. We proudly serve all vehicle makes and models. Whether you drive a truck, car, or SUV, we provide reliable service tailored to your needs. Our goal is to ensure your vehicle stays safe and performs well.

Book an appointment today, and let us help keep your car running smoothly. Together, we’ll make sure your tires are safe for every mile ahead.