Auto Talk

Where the Rubber Meets the Road

Proper tire maintenance ensures a safe, smooth ride

by Randy Pickering

Modern tires have increased our ability to travel in comfort and safety. However, as recent news stories have reminded us, even with our advanced technology, tires need attention and maintenance. Also, the wide variety of tires available today requires that we become more knowledgeable consumers.

The development of bias ply and steel belts, improved tread designs, rubber compounds and implanted studs have increased tire safety and tread life, and improved vehicle control at all legal speeds.

The days when every driver should expect to change a flat tire, at least once in a while, have almost faded from memory. Unfortunately, "out of sight, out of mind" is not conducive to trouble-free tire use. The two most important maintenance factors are proper inflation and tread wear.

Every tire has a maximum pressure determined by the tire manufacturer that is stamped on the side of each tire. But what you want to use is the tire pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. This information is contained on a plate or sticker inside the driver's doorframe-or in the owner's manual. Correct pressure increases both safety and tire life.

Tread wear is normal and cannot be pre-vented. However, safe tire use requires that the tread on all four tires be even (across the width of a tire) and be reasonably the same depth. Since front tires (the ones that steer) wear more quickly than rear tires, you should rotate your tires at regular intervals. Most manufacturers recommend tire rotation every 7,500 miles. Uneven tread wear across a tire often indicates wheel misalignment. Incorrect wheel alignment is the single greatest cause of premature tread life and you should inspect for this condition often. Wheel alignment should be checked in the spring, especially if you hit any large potholes or a curb during the winter or after purchasing new tires. Reputable auto service providers often include a tread wear inspection in the list of "things to check" when servicing your vehicle. If you aren't sure whether your service provider does this, ask at your next visit.

Tires should be replaced whenever changes in your driving conditions warrant, or if a tire has become a safety concern due to damage or uneven wear. Most tires have tread replacement indicators that show when the minimum tread depth has been reached. Keep in mind that this is a minimum and you may want to consider replacement before these indicators show. If you have any concern at all, get the advice of an expert.

When it's time for a change, be aware that there are many different tire uses and designs. They are made to do different jobs under different conditions. The easiest factor to understand is the mileage rating (e.g., 35,000-mile tire) and, unfortunately, sometimes the only one considered. You should take other factors into account, such as driving around town, highway or off-road use, carrying of heavy loads, and use on mud, snow or ice. Perhaps one set of tires will not serve all your uses, so consider multiple sets.

Either do your own research or get the advice of a reputable and knowledgeable auto service provider or tire dealer. Tires are important to your safety and driving pleasure, so don't simply purchase the lowest priced and hope for the best; select the tire that matches your type of driving, and then inspect them regularly for proper inflation and tire wear, and rotate them regularly.

Randy Pickering is owner of Pickering's Automotive and Transmission, a AAA-approved auto repair facility.

Editor's note: Proper tire inflation improves fuel economy.

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