Before hitting the road, take a few minutes to check the condition of your tires. Well-maintained tires keep your car safer, help it last longer and save you money at the gas pump, too.
These tips from the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) will help to keep your tires in good shape and your travels safe all year long:
-> Choose your tires carefully. Tire selection should be based on the correct size recommended for the vehicle and its loading recommendations. Consult with a knowledgeable tire or automobile dealer about selecting the proper tire for your typical driving patterns.
-> Buy a tire gauge and keep it handy in your car at all times. It will inform you if you need to add more air to your tires.
-> Check your tire pressure at least once per month, and especially before a long trip. Underinflation can cause damage that may lead to tire failure. And overinflation can cause uneven wear plus handling and stopping problems. Use the manufacturer’s recommended air pressure as a guide.
-> During wet weather, slow down. As your speed decreases, the tire footprint (the amount of the tire’s tread contacting the road...