As the weather heats up, ensuring your vehicle's tires are ready for the summer months is crucial. Proper summer tire care not only extends the life of your tires but also enhances your safety on the road. Here are some expert tips on maintaining your tires during the summer season.

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Understanding Summer Tire Care

Summer tire care involves a series of maintenance steps tailored to the unique challenges of hot weather. High temperatures can cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to increased tire pressure and potentially affecting your vehicle's handling. Additionally, the heat can accelerate tire wear, making it essential to keep a close eye on your tires throughout the summer.

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

One of the most critical aspects of summer tire care is maintaining the correct tire pressure. Hot weather can cause the air inside your tires to expand, increasing pressure. Overinflated tires can lead to a harsh ride, decreased traction, and increased wear in the center of the tread. Conversely, underinflated tires can cause excessive wear on the outer edges and reduce fuel efficiency. To ensure your tires are properly inflated, check the pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge and refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or the sticker inside the driver's door for the recommended pressure levels. Checking the pressure when the tires are cool is best, as heat can temporarily increase the reading.

Inspect Tire Tread

Your tires' tread is vital in providing traction and ensuring safe driving. Worn-out tread can compromise your vehicle's handling, especially in wet conditions. Use the penny test to check your tire tread: insert a penny into the tread grooves with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time to replace your tires. Use a tread depth gauge for a more precise measurement. Most experts recommend replacing tires when the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch. Regularly inspecting your tread for uneven wear patterns can help identify alignment or suspension issues early on.

Rotate and Balance Tires

Regular tire rotation and balancing are essential components of summer tire care. Rotating your tires ensures even wear across all four tires, extending their lifespan and improving performance. Most manufacturers recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, but consult your owner's manual for specific guidelines. Balancing your tires is equally essential, as unbalanced tires can cause vibrations, uneven wear, and strain on your vehicle's suspension. If you notice any unusual vibrations or noises while driving, it may be time to have your tires balanced by a professional.

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Alignment Check

Proper wheel alignment is crucial for even tire wear and optimal vehicle handling. Misaligned wheels can cause your tires to wear unevenly and affect your car's steering and suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side, the steering wheel vibrates, or you notice uneven tire wear, it's time for an alignment check. Have your alignment checked by a professional mechanic at least once a year or whenever you notice these symptoms. Correcting misalignment early can prevent more significant issues and keep your tires in top condition.

Monitor Tire Temperature

High temperatures can be tough on your tires, especially during long road trips or when driving on hot asphalt. Overheating can lead to blowouts and other tire failures. To prevent this, avoid driving at high speeds for extended periods, especially in extreme heat to prevent this. If you must drive long distances, take breaks and let your tires cool down. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of tire-related issues and keep you safe on the road.

Choose the Right Tires

Another critical aspect of summer tire care is using the correct type of tires for summer driving. All-season tires are suitable for most conditions, but summer tires, designed specifically for warm weather, offer better performance. Summer tires have a special rubber compound and tread pattern optimized for heat resistance and superior grip on dry and wet roads. If you live in an area with consistently high temperatures or plan to drive a lot this summer, investing in a set of summer tires can enhance your vehicle's performance and safety.

Regular Professional Inspections

In addition to your own checks and maintenance, having your tires professionally inspected is vital. A trained technician can identify potential issues you might miss and provide expert advice on keeping your tires in excellent condition. Schedule a professional inspection at least twice yearly to ensure your tires are safe and perform at their best.

In Summary

Proper summer tire care is essential for safe and efficient driving during the hot months. Regularly checking tire pressure, inspecting tread, rotating and balancing tires, ensuring proper alignment, monitoring tire temperature, choosing the right tires, and seeking professional inspections are all critical steps in maintaining your tires.

Stay safe on the road this summer by using premium maintenance products from AMSOIL: Cerberus Systems, Inc. in Chambersburg. For expert advice, call (717) 658-1256 to speak with an oil pro, and visit our online shop to discover our complete product selection.