Maintain your tires for a safer, smoother drive

Tires are a crucial part of your day-to-day travels, but they can be easily overlooked when you're inspecting your car. It's important to note, however; that there are significant benefits to checking them frequently – including better fuel economy, a safer drive, and easier handling of your vehicle. 

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Follow these tips to ensure a smooth ride. 

Check your tire pressure

Tires can lose air naturally over time. You should check all four tires monthly to make sure they are within the recommended pressure limits. Having under or over-inflated tires can lead to blowouts, flat tires, or other tire failures. 

Lighten the load

The amount you carry in your vehicle can affect tire performance. You'll find the load limit – the most a car can safely carry – on the tire information placard, vehicle certification label, or owner's manual. Exceeding this limit will increase the wear on your tires. 

Inspect the tread

When tire tread is worn down, it won't provide the traction your vehicle needs to keep from sliding on the road. A simple way to test it is to insert a penny in the tread with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tread is too worn and the tire should be replaced. 

Rotate the tires

It's important to rotate your tires to prevent irregular wear. Your owner's manual can guide you on how often this should be done. 

For more information, visit: https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/tires