![]() Perform these simple steps monthly to keep your tires in good shape and reduce the risk of problems.Īlso remember to have your tires rotated, which can extend their life and help them to wear evenly. By 2⁄32 inch, tires have significantly reduced wet traction and resistance to hydroplaning-skimming on water. Tires truly need to be replaced by 2⁄32 inch, as measured using a penny and Abraham Lincoln's head. That's enough to offer some all-weather grip, but it signals the time to start thinking about replacement. If the top of George Washington's head is just visible when placed in a tread groove, the tread has about a 4⁄32-inch depth. Check the spare tire while you're at it, if the car has one. A nail, screw, or tear may not be obvious, or even causing a significant leak, but they can lead to serious problems later.Ĭheck the inflation when the tires are cold (before driving), referencing the sticker in the driver's doorjamb for the recommended air pressure. ![]() Pay attention to both the tread and the sidewalls. Look over the tires for uneven wear and damage that could warrant their replacement. There can be multiple reasons for a flat tire, including some that are beyond your control, but a routine inspection can help avoid some common causes and even identify a developing problem that is easier to address at home than on the road.īelow we will review how to inspect your tires, what to do if you experience a flat, and touch on what you should know to change a tire. This not only means heat can build up in the tire, risking failure, but underinflation can hurt fuel economy. Consequently, one in four cars has a tire that is significantly underinflated, says the agency. Only 19 percent of consumers properly check and inflate their tires, according to the National High Traffic Safety Administration. He adds that having an emergency kit onboard is important, complete with reflective triangles to warn other motorists, work gloves, and a bottle of water. "Check the tires as soon as possible when you see a warning," says Petersen. This light will illuminate when one or more tires are significantly underinflated. Also, don't ignore the tire pressure light that appears in the instrument panel. "A simple tire check is smart medicine to catch potential problems before you set out on the open road," advises Consumer Reports tire program manager Gene Petersen. ![]()
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