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Tire Maintenance

Why is Tire Maintenance Important?
When it comes to regular vehicle maintenance, it's easy to remember the basics like oil changes and fluid checks. Tire maintenance usually falls a little further down the list, although well-maintained tires are key to your vehicle's safety and performance. After all, they're the only part of your car that actually touches the road! Here are just a few of the benefits of properly-maintained and inflated tires:
Ensures that critical safety systems like anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control function correctly
Better vehicle handling and control
Reduced chance of collision or breakdown
Improved fuel economy
Extended tire life
Reduced emissions
A smoother, more comfortable ride
How to Check Your Tires
With a few quick and simple steps, you can help to ensure your vehicle's continued good performance and handling. It might seem daunting at first, but after a couple of regular checks, you'll be a pro! Check out these tips and tricks on the best way to keep your tires rolling smoothly:
Measure tire pressure at least once a month, and before starting a long trip. The recommended vehicle tire pressure can be found in your owner's manual or on the tire information label, which is usually located on the edge of the driver's door. Don't use the pressure indicated on the tire, since this is the maximum pressure, not necessarily the recommended one!
Measure the pressure when the tires are cold.
After you measure the tire pressure, check for uneven tread wear, cuts, cracks, bulges, or anything out of the ordinary.
If the pressure is low, inflate the tire to the recommended pressure.
When inflating your tires, make sure the valves are free of dirt and obstructions, and that the tire valves have caps. Be careful not to over-inflate!
Get your tires rotated regularly. Check your owner's manual for the recommended rotation schedule.
Be careful not to overload your vehicle, as this can damage your tires. The tire information label tells you what the maximum load should be.
Remember, the driving environment can have a huge impact on the life of your tires! When you're shopping for your next set of tires, remember to choose the tires that are best suited to your vehicle and where you live. The parts specialists at Superior Nissan can help you put the rubber to the road!
Tires 101
For maximum safety and control, tires should always be inflated to the recommended pressure. We're not just full of hot air! Underinflation can cause the sidewalls of the tires to flex, which increases the chance of tire failure. This type of flexing can also cause a dangerous heat buildup and causes the tread to wear quickly and unevenly. Over-inflation makes tires more susceptible to impact damage and can cause problems with handling as well as tread wear.
The tread of your tires is what gives them the ability to "stick" to the road. Over time, the tread wears down, which decreases traction. It's important to check tire tread as well as tire pressure. Many tires have wear bars, which let you know when the tread is worn down to a dangerous level. If you have any questions about tread wear, we're happy to help! Just call and speak to one of our friendly parts advisors.
Tire Storage
Winter tires are designed to provide superior traction in the colder months, while summer performance tires help enhance your driving experience when the sun is shining. Storing your off-season tires correctly can help ensure they're ready to go as soon as the weather changes. Tires should be stored upright, in an environment that's clean and free from strong light, heat, and hydrocarbons. If the tires are on rims, it's recommended that you reduce the tire pressure to avoid possible cracks and deformations. Tire covers are a great way to ensure your tires stay protected while in storage.
At Superior Nissan, we love to talk tires! If you're shopping for a new set of tires, or you would like to schedule a tire evaluation or wheel alignment, give us a call. We'll be happy to help get you rolling!