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Top Tire Tips

Tire Maintenance is Critical to Road Safety

Under-inflated tires result in 33,000 injuries and 660 fatalities each year on U.S. roads.

Tom Englert, Chief Executive Officer of Discount Tire says, "Checking a vehicle's tire inflation pressure is one of the most critical things a motorist can do to improve their own road safety and that of their passengers. Improperly inflated tires often lead to decreased steering and braking control as well as excessive tire wear. Regular tire maintenance can lead to longer lasting tires, better fuel economy and safer vehicles on our roads."

Discount Tire provides free tire air pressure and tread depth checks by trained tire technicians at all of its retail stores nationwide.

Donald B. Shea, RMA President and Chief Executive Officer says, "American motorists are not aware of the overall impact proper tire maintenance has on road safety. Tires are the only part of the vehicle that touch the road so it's very important that they receive regular basic maintenance to ensure they function properly."


According to a driver survey conducted by the Rubber Manufacturers Association:

 

  • 81% of drivers do not know how to check their tire inflation pressure.

  • 53% of drivers wrongly believe that the correct inflation pressure is printed on the tire sidewall.

  • 31% of drivers don't know how to tell if their tires are "bald"

  • 73% of drivers do not check the tire pressure in their spare tire

  • Each month, 3-out-of-4 drivers wash their cars while only 1-out-of-5 correctly checks their tire pressure.

    Top 10 Tire Care Tips

    1. Don't wait until it's too late - Make it a habit to check your tire
    pressure at least once per month and before every long trip. Under
    inflated tires cause excess heat build-up that can damage tires and lead to a failure.

    2. Know your pressure point - The correct tire pressure is found on a sticker on the driver's door, doorpost or owner's manual not on the tire sidewall - that's the maximum pressure for the tire.

    3. Keep your cool - To accurately measure your tire pressure, check tires when they are cold. Wait at least 3 hours after driving.
    4. Take care of your spare - Check your spare tire each month and keepit properly inflated so it's ready to go when you need it most.

    5. Penny for your thoughts - A penny can tell you if your tire is bald. Place a penny upside down into a tread groove. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, it's time for a new tire.

    6. Keep yourself in line - Be aware of potholes that can damage your tire and also jar your car's alignment.

    7. Pick a date and rotate - Make sure you rotate your tires every 6,000 miles to promote uniform wear and longer tire life.

    8. Don't take a spin without a cap - Driving without your tire valve cap allows for a slow leak of air from the tire and eventual under inflation.

    9. Don't lose your balance - It is important to have your tire balance checked periodically to avoid irregular wear.

    10. Be a weight-watcher - Overloading your vehicle stresses your tires and can lead to damage.

    (Source: Discount Tire / America's Tire Company)