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Step 1
Check your tires outdoors where the lighting is good. Visually inspect all four tires.
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Step 2
Remember that under normal driving conditions, all four tires should wear evenly.
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Step 3
Check for even tread wear by using a tread-depth gauge, which costs less than $20. The depth of the tread (the grooves in the tire) should be even on all parts of the tire. Another way to check for tire wear (although not as accurate) is to stick a penny into the grooves, with Lincoln's head pointing into the tire. If you can see the top of his head, it's time to buy new tires.
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Step 4
Let some air out of your tires if there is wear down the middle and not on the sides. It means there's too much air in them.
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Step 5
Add air to tires with wear on both the inside and outside edges, which means there's not enough air in them.
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Step 6
Bring your car to an alignment shop for a front-end or four-wheel alignment if your tires are worn on one side or the other.
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Step 7
Run your hand lightly over the tread surface of each tire. If the treads feel bumpy or scalloped, even if the tread is still deep, you may need new shock absorbers or struts. (Some cars have shocks, some have struts and some have a combination'struts in front, shocks in back.)
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Step 8
Check the tire pressure in all four tires and the spare tire at least once a month. The recommended tire pressure is listed in your vehicle's manual, stamped on the side of the tire, and often printed on a sticker on the driver's-side doorjamb. When in doubt, 32 pounds per square inch (psi) is a good average until other sources can be consulted.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 6/30/2006 Always check tire pressure when the tires are cold or haven't been driven for an extended period of time. Heat builds pressure in the tires and will give you an incorrect reading.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Correct tire size can be critical in vehicles with an ABS (antilock brake system)! Mixing tire sizes can make an ABS activate prematurely.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 If you live in a climate where you get any snow, I suggest that you buy four winter tires. Not only will snow tires give you the greatest traction in snow and ice, but they will also help you to prolong the life of your "All Season" tires. The reason is that you will always be rotating between your winter tires and your "All Season" tires.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 You should always carry a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle. The outside temperature can alter the air pressure in your tires and allow them to wear out prematurely. Think "Preventive Maintenance," and it could save you money in the long run.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Tires never wear evenly, even if the car is properly aligned. Rotate tires at least every 6000 miles to spread the wear on all of the tires.