Sometimes even seasoned drivers forget how important it is to regularly check tires for maintenance and repair. Good tires provide stability to a vehicle and, most importantly, make it drivable. Tires that are not well cared for can become a driving hazard over time, putting the driver and passengers at risk of a blowout and possibly an accident. To minimize your risk of tire trouble, be sure to regularly complete the at-home checks described below and have your vehicle serviced by an experienced auto mechanic.
At-Home Tire Checks
One easy inspection that any driver can make is to check tire pressure. All you need to check that a tire is properly inflated is a pressure gauge. Simply unscrew the valve and press the gauge onto the valve to check the pressure. Be sure that the pressure in the tire falls within the range listed on the tire’s sidewall. If the tire is under inflated, the sides of the tire will experience abnormal wear which could increase the risk of a flat or blowout. If the tire is over inflated, the center of the tire may be exposed to increased wear and could also blow out.
Another easy at-home check is to check the wear on the tread of each of your tires. To do this, all you need is a penny. Insert the penny into the groove of your tire tread upside-down, with the head’s side facing you. If Lincoln’s head is obstructed by the tread, there is sufficient tread still on the tire. If, however, the tread is worn down to the point that Lincoln’s head is visible, your tire should be replaced. It is important to have your tire changed as soon as you notice a problem with the tread.
Professional Maintenance
Other than inflating your tires and performing pressure and tread checks, it is strongly recommended that all other tire maintenance be performed by a professional mechanic. Because tires are so crucial to stability and safety, they need to be aligned precisely and accurately. If you notice any wobbling or shaking while you are driving, or your car feels lopsided, you may have tire trouble that needs to be fixed. Take your car to a local tire maintenance shop to determine what type of maintenance and repair needs to be performed. Some of the services that tire shops perform include:
- Inspection
- Rotation
- Balancing
- Alignment adjustment
- Replacement and repair
Remember that driving on an old, worn, or damaged tire can be a major driving safety hazard that could result in a costly accident and injuries. Having your car inspected now and paying for maintenance and repairs up front could save you much grief later on.
For More Information
To learn more about protecting your family from costly damages and repairs, please visit the website of the Chicago car insurance professionals at Insure on the Spot today.
