TIPS FOR GETTING THE LONGEST LIFE FROM YOUR TIRES
No matter what type of vehicle you own, tires are part of your vocabulary. However, as the most trusted Winchester tire shop, our team at Castle Tire can attest that tires are also some of the most neglected elements of vehicle ownership. While the majority of drivers keep up with routine maintenance, like oil changes, they assume their local mechanic will handle the other stuff.
For instance, if you consider the last time your vehicle was in the shop, chances are, tire rotation and pressure check were included. So, while your trusted mechanic is keeping an eye out, why do you have to worry about your tires, right?
Like other elements, tire maintenance is a must.
Spending hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on new tires is generally not something people like to do. While investing in new tires is eventually an inevitable task, routine maintenance will prolong the event. By following a few simple guidelines, you can expect to receive the following:
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Increased vehicle performance
- Improved handling in any weather
- Even wear and tear throughout your tires
- Longer time before needing replacement tires
Monitor your pressure.
One of the easiest ways to maintain your tires is by monitoring the air pressure. With an inexpensive pressure gauge, you’ll know if you have a slow leak. If you don’t own a pressure gauge, nearly every gas station has one available at the air pump.
When checking your tire pressure, start by knowing the number you’re looking for. If you’re not sure of the proper pressure for your vehicle, check inside the driver’s door. Here, you’ll find the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. If you can’t locate the information on your door, it is also documented in the owner’s manual. Once you have this number, you’re ready to move on.
Checking the pressure starts by removing the valve stem. Once removed, firmly attach the pressure gauge to create a tight seal. You’ll know if you’ve accomplished this by listening – the sound of leaking air means you need more pressure. The gauge will automatically report the pressure amount on a simple to read dial. Depending on the number, you may need to add air to increase the pressure to the recommended number.
Inspections and tread.
Since you’re already spending time on your tires, perform a visual inspection too. This inspection informs you if your tires are starting to crack, have foreign items lodged into them, are getting low in the tread department, and so on. Speaking of tread – have you heard of the penny test?
The penny test is a simple way to figure out how your tire’s tread is doing. Place a penny head first into a few different areas of your tire. If you see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is in good condition. If his head is covered, it may be time to give Castle Tire Shop a visit.
No matter what the condition of your tires may be, our team is here for all of your Winchester tire shop needs. At Castle Tire, we have decades of experience and satisfied customers!
Give us a call or visit Castle Tire Shop today at 786 Main St in Winchester, MA. Our professionals can assist with a range of services including mounting, alignments, balancing, and flat tire repair.
Contact us today or stop by at 786 Main St in Winchester, MA to schedule an appointment with our local tire shop!