Tire Safety Tips: Keep Your Wheels Safe and Reliable

Got a car? Then you’ve got tires, and tires are the only part of the vehicle that actually touches the road. If they’re not in good shape, everything else is at risk. Below are the must‑do steps anyone can follow to make sure their tires stay safe, last longer, and keep you out of trouble.

Check Your Pressure Regularly

The first thing you should do is grab a tire pressure gauge and check all four wheels at least once a month. Your car’s driver‑side door jamb has the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) for the front and rear tires. If the number on the gauge is lower, add air at a gas station or with a home‑pump. If it’s higher, let some air out.

Why does this matter? Under‑inflated tires generate more heat, wear on the edges, and lower fuel economy. Over‑inflated tires chew up the center of the tread and feel harsh on bumps. Both conditions can lead to a blowout, especially on hot days.

For the best accuracy, check pressures when the tires are cold – that means before you’ve driven more than a mile. A quick 30‑second check each month saves you the cost of a premature replacement and keeps your ride smooth.

Inspect Tread and Look for Damage

Next up, look at the tread depth. The simple “penny test” works: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is below 2/32 inch and it’s time for new tires.

While you’re at it, scan the sidewalls for cuts, cracks, or bulges. Any sign of a foreign object lodged in the tread, such as a nail, should be removed promptly. If the tire can’t hold air after you pull it out, replace the tire – driving on a punctured tire is risky.

Don’t forget about tire rotation. Rotating tires every 5,000–7,000 miles (or as your owner’s manual says) evens out wear because the front tires typically work harder than the rear. Even wear means the tread stays usable longer and you get a smoother ride.

Finally, keep an eye on alignment. If you notice the car pulling to one side, the steering wheel vibrating, or uneven wear patterns (one side of the tread flattening more than the other), it’s time to have an alignment check. Proper alignment reduces strain on tires, saving you money.

By checking pressure, inspecting tread, rotating regularly, and staying on top of alignment, you’ll cut down on blowouts, improve fuel efficiency, and stretch the life of your tires. It’s a small habit that pays off every mile you drive.

Remember, tires are the bridge between your car and the road. Treat them with the care they deserve, and they’ll keep you safe wherever you go.