How to care for summer tires in the summer season?
06/28/2023
Taking care of summer tires during the summer season is essential to ensure their optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Here are some tips to help you maintain your summer tires:
1. Regularly Check Tire Pressure: Hot weather can cause tire pressure to increase, so it's crucial to monitor and adjust the tire pressure regularly. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge and keep the pressure within the manufacturer's recommended range, which can usually be found in your vehicle's owner's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door frame.
2. Inspect Tread Depth and Wear: Check the tread depth of your tires regularly. Worn-out tires can compromise traction and increase the risk of hydroplaning. If the tread depth is close to or below the legal limit, it's time to consider replacing the tires.
3. Rotate Tires Regularly: Rotate your tires as per the recommended schedule in your vehicle's owner's manual. Regular tire rotation helps ensure even wear across all tires, extending their lifespan and maintaining consistent performance.
4. Avoid Overloading: Do not exceed the vehicle's recommended load-carrying capacity. Overloading can put excessive stress on the tires, leading to premature wear and reduced performance.
5. Avoid Sudden Starts and Stops: Aggressive driving, such as sudden accelerations and hard braking, can accelerate tire wear. Drive smoothly and maintain a safe following distance to reduce unnecessary stress on the tires.
6. Keep Tires Clean: Wash your tires regularly to remove debris, dirt, and road grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or petroleum-based cleaning agents, as they can damage the rubber. Use a mild soap and water instead.
7. Park in the Shade: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in the shade to minimize the exposure of the tires to direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can cause the rubber to degrade over time.
8. Avoid Hitting Curbs and Potholes: Be mindful of road hazards and avoid hitting curbs or potholes whenever possible. Such impacts can damage the tire sidewalls or cause misalignment, affecting tire performance.
9. Store Tires Properly: If you plan to change to winter tires during the colder months, store your summer tires in a cool, dry, and dark place. Consider using tire covers to protect them from sunlight and ozone exposure.
By following these tips and maintaining a proactive approach to tire care, you can ensure that your summer tires perform optimally throughout the summer season and maximize their overall lifespan.