Car tires are essential for ensuring safety on the road because they enhance the handling ability of the vehicle. Notably, the service life of car tires will depend on many factors some of which are within your control while others are not. For example, leaving your car parked for months will cause your tires to wear out faster and so will driving like a maniac. Since car tires are a massive investment, a little TLC can go a long way in ensuring that they age slowly and give you value for money. Here are some simple tips for extending the service life of your car tires.
Tire Dry Rot
When your car tires are left unused for an extended period, often months or years, cracks might start to form. Over time, the rubber will begin to degrade as oil evaporates leaving a very dry tire commonly known as dry rot. Improper storage of tires near excessive heat/sun, poor inflation, and non-usage are some of the factors that contribute to the dry rot problem. Car owners should rethink the way they store their cars when not in use. Consider storing the vehicle in a climate controlled garage and ensure that you check the pressure regularly. When you notice the rot issue in the early stages, there is hope of salvaging your tires by applying a water-based product that helps seal the emerging cracks. Waiting too long will force you to replace all the affected tires.
Tire Pressure
Tire pressure is one of the most common things that car owners know; yet, they often ignore to their detriment. A reliable rule of thumb is to check tire pressure every time you want to embark on a journey. Check the owner's manual to ascertain the level of air pressure for your tires since it depends on the vehicle type, the purpose of the vehicle, and type of tire, for example, winter tires or off-road tires. However, auto experts admit that standard car tires need air in the region of 32 to 35 pounds per square inch (PSI). Large and heavy-duty vehicles need almost double this amount.
Wheel Alignment
Poor vehicle alignment can cause tire treads to wear out irregularly. Regular encounters with bumps and potholes can lead to wheel misalignment causing drifting, steering issues, and vibrations when driving. Also, severe accidents can cause your car suspension to malfunction, which in turn affects the tire alignment. Extend the life of car tires by scheduling for wheel alignment as often as you can, but most importantly when you start noticing minor misalignment issues.
For more information, contact local mechanics.