Taking care of your tires is essential for both safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Here are some car tire maintenance tips and tricks from Carolina Quick Lube to keep your tires in good, safe, condition so you can get the most mileage out of them.

• Regularly Check Tire Pressure: Proper tire pressure is crucial for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the tire placard typically located on the driver’s side door jamb.
• Inspect Tread Depth: Monitor your tire tread depth regularly to ensure adequate traction and grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test to check tread depth. If the tread depth is worn down to 2/32 of an inch (or if you can see Lincoln’s head when using a penny), it’s time to replace the tires.
• Tire Rotations: Regular tire rotations helps distribute wear evenly across all four tires, extending their lifespan. Follow the rotation pattern recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, typically rotating tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
• Maintain Wheel Alignment: Proper wheel alignment ensures that your tires wear evenly and your vehicle handles correctly. If you notice uneven tire wear, steering pull, or vibrations, have your wheel alignment checked by a professional.
• Avoid Overloading: Avoid overloading your vehicle beyond its maximum load capacity, as this can put excessive strain on the tires and lead to premature wear or failure.
• Drive Carefully: Aggressive driving habits such as hard braking, sharp turns, and rapid acceleration can accelerate tire wear. Drive smoothly and avoid potholes, curbs, and other road hazards whenever possible.
• Use the Right Tires: Make sure your vehicle is equipped with tires that are suitable for your driving conditions, climate, and intended use. Choose tires with the appropriate speed rating, load index, and tread pattern for your vehicle and driving habits.

By following these tire care maintenance tips and tricks, you can help ensure that your tires perform optimally, last longer, and contribute to a safe and comfortable driving experience for you and your family as you cruise around Garner and Johnston County!