Tires are a big investment, and how long they last depends not only on the brand or model but also on how well they’re maintained. Uneven tire wear shortens lifespan, reduces traction, and can even affect how your car handles. The good news is that with the right habits and regular checks, you can keep your tires wearing evenly and safely throughout the year.
Here are the key steps to make sure your tires stay in good shape.
Check and Adjust Tire Pressure Regularly
Proper inflation is one of the simplest but most effective ways to prevent uneven tire wear. Overinflated tires wear more in the center, while underinflated tires wear faster on the edges. Seasonal temperature changes also affect tire pressure, so it’s worth checking at least once a month and before long trips. Always inflate to the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer, not the number on the tire sidewall.
Rotate Your Tires on Schedule
Front and rear tires wear differently because they handle different loads and steering forces. Rotating them spreads out the wear, helping all four last longer. Most manufacturers recommend rotating every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Sticking to this schedule ensures the tires wear evenly, improves performance, and saves money over time.
Keep Your Wheels Aligned
Hitting potholes, curbs, or driving on rough roads can knock your wheels out of alignment. When that happens, your tires may wear unevenly, often showing more wear on one edge. Signs of poor alignment include your vehicle pulling to one side, a crooked steering wheel, or unusual tire wear patterns. Having your alignment checked regularly keeps your car handling properly and helps protect your tires.
Inspect Suspension and Steering Components
Your tires are directly affected by the condition of your suspension and steering system. Worn shocks, struts, ball joints, or bushings can cause tires to bounce or tilt, leading to patchy wear. If your ride feels unstable or bouncy, it’s a good idea to have a technician inspect the suspension. Fixing these issues early not only improves comfort but also keeps your tires from wearing unevenly.
Balance Your Tires
Unbalanced tires can cause vibrations, especially at highway speeds, and lead to uneven tread wear. Balancing ensures the weight is distributed evenly around each wheel and tire assembly. This service is usually performed when new tires are installed, but should also be done if you notice vibrations or if weights fall off over time.
Don’t Forget Seasonal Considerations
Cold weather can lower tire pressure, while hot pavement in summer can increase it. Seasonal driving conditions, such as icy winter roads or hot summer highways, can also affect how your tires wear. Adjusting tire care to the season keeps wear patterns consistent year-round. For drivers who switch between winter and all-season tires, inspections during each changeover are especially important.
Tire Care and Maintenance at 808 Automotive in Hubbard, OR
If you want to get the most out of your tires, regular inspections and maintenance are essential. At 808 Automotive in Hubbard, OR, our technicians can rotate, balance, and align your tires to ensure they wear evenly throughout the year. We’ll also check your suspension, steering, and tire pressure to make sure nothing shortens their life.
Schedule your service with us today and enjoy a smoother, safer drive with tires that last.
