How to Keep Your Tires in Top Shape: Essential Tips for Every Driver

 How to Keep Your Tires in Top Shape: Essential Tips for Every Driver

Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making them one of the most critical components of your car. Proper tire maintenance not only extends their lifespan but also improves fuel efficiency, enhances safety, and prevents unexpected breakdowns. At Brady's Towing and Roadside Assistance, we’ve seen firsthand how neglected tires can leave drivers stranded. Here’s how you can keep your tires in top shape and avoid roadside trouble.

1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Underinflated or overinflated tires wear out faster and can affect your vehicle’s handling. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Refer to your owner’s manual or the sticker inside your driver’s door for the correct PSI (pounds per square inch).

Low pressure? It reduces fuel efficiency and increases the risk of blowouts.

High pressure? It makes tires more prone to uneven wear and less effective at gripping the road.

Use a reliable tire pressure gauge and adjust accordingly at a gas station or with a home air compressor.

2. Rotate Your Tires Every 5,000-7,000 Miles

Tires don’t wear evenly due to weight distribution and drivetrain differences. Regular rotations help distribute wear evenly, extending the life of your tires. A good rule of thumb is to rotate them every oil change or according to your manufacturer’s recommendations.

3. Check Tread Depth to Avoid Bald Tires

Worn-out tread reduces traction, especially on wet or slippery roads. You can check your tread depth using a simple penny test:

Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down.

If you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace your tires.

Alternatively, use a tread depth gauge to ensure your tires meet the recommended minimum depth of 2/32 of an inch.

4. Keep Your Wheels Aligned and Balanced

If your vehicle pulls to one side or you notice uneven tread wear, your wheels may be misaligned. Misalignment can cause tires to wear out prematurely and affect steering. Have your alignment checked at least once a year or if you hit a pothole or curb.

Balancing your tires also prevents uneven wear and reduces vibrations that can lead to premature suspension and steering issues.

5. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

Exceeding your vehicle’s weight limit puts excessive strain on your tires, increasing the risk of a blowout. Check your vehicle’s load capacity in the owner’s manual and avoid carrying unnecessary heavy loads for extended periods.

6. Inspect Tires for Damage and Debris

Check for cracks, punctures, bulges, or objects like nails stuck in the tread. Small issues can turn into big problems if left unattended. If you spot damage, get your tire repaired or replaced immediately.

7. Store Spare Tires Properly

If you keep a spare tire in your vehicle, ensure it’s properly inflated and in good condition. For seasonal or extra tires stored at home, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent rubber deterioration.

Final Thoughts: Prevention is Key

Taking care of your tires not only keeps you safe but also saves you money in the long run. Simple routine maintenance can prevent blowouts, improve handling, and extend tire life.

If you ever find yourself with a flat or need roadside assistance in Vernon Parish, Brady's Towing and Roadside Assistance is just a call away. We’re here to help get you back on the road safely and quickly.

Need roadside help? Contact us today!