Road trips, camping, summer breaks, and weekend drives are back! Many are ready to hit the road this summer to seek an escape. But before getting on the road, it’s essential to have your tires in good condition. Read on for tire safety trips for your next adventure.
Visual Inspection
Before hitting the road, check the condition of your car tires first. Well-maintained tires keep your vehicle safe and save you money by using less fuel and making your tires last longer. Look for any abnormalities like bulges or cuts in your tire’s sidewall or internal areas. Contact your local tire dealer immediately if you see any of these defects.
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Check Tread Depth
A tire tread is the part of a tire that meets the road. The grooves of your tires have wear bars spaced equally around them. The location of the grooves is designated with a small triangle on the side of the tire. If you move your finger over a tire wear bar and the edge feels even with the outside portion, it’s time to replace it. This is important because your wet traction will be reduced, and you’ll risk hydroplaning.
Check Inflation Pressure
Buy a tire gauge and ensure you keep it in your car at all times. Ensure you check your tire pressure monthly, and especially before a long trip. Keep in mind that underinflation is a tire’s worst enemy. This is because it can damage your tires even more. Overinflation can also cause uneven wear, along with handling and stopping issues. Check the tire manufacturer’s recommended air pressure on the sticker of your car to get your pressure right.
Avoid Overloading
Overloading your car can create excessive heat inside your tires and damage them. Check the auto manufacturer’s load recommendation on the car’s placard inside the driver’s side door post. You could also find this information in the owners’ manual. The weight of your vehicle’s occupants should also be considered when calculating the load.
Slow Down in Wet Weather
Along with having sufficient tread depth for wet traction, ease up on the gas pedal in damp weather, especially during winter. The tire footprint increases as your speed decreases in the rain, providing better traction. This will reduce the risk of hydroplaning.
