This article answers the question: What are tire maintenance tips? How do I know if my tires are bad? How do I measure tread depth?
Tire Maintenance
Ask your technician about the life of your tires. Schedule them to be changed before that time comes.
Tire Maintenance Tips: Check the tire pressure (PSI)
Your tires will have a tire pressure number on them. You can check the tire pressure at most gas stations. If your tire light is on and your PSI is low, make sure to fill it quickly. Keeping your tires full keeps them safe and prevents damage to your suspension.
Tire Maintenance Tips: My Tire Pressure is Low
Wear and tear happens to all tires. If your tire is low, check for leaks. Look to see if there are any nails or puncture spots on the tread. A nail can seal the hole but offer a slow and consistent leak. If you’re constantly filling your tires that’s a good indicator of a hole.
Do I need a new tire if I have a hole?
No. Some holes can be patched quickly without replacing your tire. It depends on where the hole is. If your tires are old or worn it might be time to replace them.
How long does it take to fix a hole?
This is usually a same-day service.
Tire Maintenance Tips: Check the tread depth
How do I know if my tires are bad?
Tread depth is important to show the life of your tires and safety. Bald or low-tread tires in decent weather can be a ticking time bomb.
Tire Maintenance Tips: How deep should my tire tread be?
Try the penny test, if you put a penny between the tread and Lincoln’s head isn’t covered by your tire tread, then it’s time to replace your tires. This is an easy trick, you can also gauge depth by your nails. How much has it worn down since you bought it? Have you noticed any slipping when it’s wet outside? These are all indicators.
Tire Maintenance Tips: Tread Depth and the Weather
When it rains does your car have difficulty stopping? This is a warning sign that your tread could be low on tires. Rain, Black Rain, Ice, and Snow are weather conditions that demand good tire tread. If your car tires are bald they need to be replaced. During winter weather bald tires lead to car accidents. Cars with bald tires spin out of control and slide through intersections.
What to do if my tire blows?
If your tire blows this could put you in unsafe conditions, depending on the speed and location your tire breaks. When your tire breaks, try to remain calm and pull to the side of the road. If you have a spare tire, put that on and drive to your Truman’s Automotive tire specialist or your nearest automotive tire shop.
Call Your Insurance Provider
Some insurance providers offer AAA or other curb-side assistance. They can help repair or tow your car.
Call Truman’s Automotive
One of the best reasons to work with a local company is the community assistance they provide. Unlike a large company, local companies like Truman’s Automotive & ADAS Calibrations offer friendly help and advice. Contact us for assistance. If you don’t have a spare tire, call your auto technician and ask if they can help bring spare.
If you have questions call us at (515) 262-8419 and we’ll help you find the best path to get your car fixed.