We change our oil, we fix the parts that are broken, we fill the gas tank, but do we really know how to take care of our tires. Without the proper care of our tires, we would be walking to work. Tires happen to be a very important part to our everyday life whether it’s getting to work, grocery shopping, or picking up the kids. This article features history on the tire itself, routine maintenance and check ups and recommended tire brands.
HISTORY:
Vulcanized rubber was invented in 1844 by Charles Goodyear. The component was created by heating up natural rubber and sulfur. Several attempts were made for the making of a tire. In 1888, John Dunlop invented the air-filled pneumatic tires but his were used for bicycles. In 1895 André Michelin was the first to use the pneumatic tires on an automobile but failed. In 1911, Philip Strauss invented the first successful tire, which was a combination tire and air-filled inner tube.
TIRE PRESSURE
With the right amount of air pressure, tires wear longer, save fuel, enhance handling and can even prevent accidents.
Checking the air pressure routinely is the best way to continue the life of your vehicle’s tires. Tires lose air everyday and are often based on temperature. In cool weather, a tire can lose up to two pounds of air per month. In warmer weather, it’s common for tires to lose air at an even higher rate. So it’s good to check your tire’s air pressure monthly. Also remember to have your spare tire checked for air. A lot of times, the tire will lose a sufficient amount of air and when it comes time to be used, you’re out of luck because you forgot to check the air pressure.
The correct air pressure for your vehicle can be found in the vehicle owner’s manual or on the tire placard which is usually attached to the vehicle door edge, door post, glove box or fuel door. Also, all tires are imprinted with the psi (pounds per square inch) requirements on the inner outside rim of the tire. When checking your tire pressure, use a quality air gauge which can be purchased at local hardware stores. The best time to check the tires is when they are cold. Cold air pressure means that the vehicle has not yet been driven one mile. When a tire is considered “warm” the tire’s air pressure increases and will not be able to give an accurate reading when measuring the proper air pressure. Also, make sure that the valve caps are fastened to keep out dirt and moisture. It has been estimated that drivers lose from 10% to as much as 50% of tread wear due to under inflation.
TIRE ROTATION
Tire rotation is another key essential in your tire’s life. Rotating them periodically helps the tire to achieve more uniform wear for all tires of the vehicle and should be rotated every 6,000 miles. Remember that if you hit a pothole, it can cause misalignment which then leads to uneven tire wear. If you live in Michigan, there are a lot of potholes to watch out for!
How do you know when your ready for new tires? There are many cases when you can look at a bald tire and see that you need a replacement. However, are you on the brink? Use this simple test to see if you are in need of new tires.
Take a regular penny, and place in between the grooves on the top of the tire as shown above. If you can see the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head, you probably need new tires (especially if you drive in adverse weather conditions often, like rain or snow).
If you cannot see the top of Lincoln’s head, you are most likely ok. However, we strongly suggest the advice of a professional. This penny test is merely a quick way of estimating how much life you have left on your tires.
In conclusion, tires play an important role in your daily life. With these tools you can monitor air pressure, tire tread, and the life of your tires. Todd Wenzel Automotive technicians are highly trained and certified when it comes to choosing your tires. We have a variety of tire brands from Goodyear to Uniroyal. To schedule an appointment to have your tires checked call 616-949-7700 or 616-669-6683 or you can even schedule an appointment on our website. http://www.toddwenzelchevy.com/ServiceApptForm
Below is a short video from Edmunds.com on tire pressure.
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