Tire Tips & Maintenance From Frank Myers Auto Maxx in Winston-Salem, NC

Check Your Air Pressure Once a Month

Incorrect air pressure is the leading cause of tire damage. To avoid tire damage you need to check your tire's air pressure once a month.

The correct tire pressure can be found in the following places: in the car' owner manual; gas tank lid; driver's side door's edge; door post.

The air pressure listed on the side of your tire is NOT the correct air pressure for your vehicle. That number is the maximum air pressure for the tire. Remember to check the air in your spare tire.

Don't get stranded or put out costly towing expenses. Check your air pressure on your spare regularly. Note: If you have different rims than came on your vehicle originally, make sure that the bolts on your spare tire are the correct fitting.

Failure to keep your tires properly inflated can increase wear and will have a negative effect on your vehicles handling.

When checking and adjusting tire pressure, the following should be kept in mind:

• Check the air pressure when the tire is cold - tires become hot even after driving just a mile. If you must drive to add air, check your air pressure before you leave. Air pressure

changes 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change. Air pressure goes up in warm weather and down in cold weather.

• Tire pressure must be the same on the tires of each axle, but may be different on the front and rear axle.

• Valve caps must be tightly closed to protect the valve from dust and dirt and prevent it from leaking.

• Replace missing valve caps without delay.

Take this opportunity to inspect your tires to make sure there is nothing stuck in them or they have no deformities.

Tread Depth

To prevent hydroplaning and skidding your tires must have proper tread depth. The minimum tread depth is 1/16th of and inch.

Ask anyone, the easiest way to check your tread depth...the penny test.

What is the penny test? Take a penny and place it in the tread of your tire. If part of Lincoln's head is covered by the tread your tires have enough tread. If you can see Lincoln's entire head, you should buy a new tire.

You should also check your tire tread for uneven wear. Irregular wear shortens the life of your tires, if you think you have uneven wear you should take you vehicle to your tire

dealer.

Rotation

The best way to prevent uneven wear is to have your tires rotated every 5,000 - 7,000 miles or as specified in your vehicle's owner manual.

Replacing Your Tires

You should replace your tires with the same type of tires that came on your vehicle original equipment. This includes tire size, type and speed rating.

Any reputable automotive service center, such as the one at Frank Myers Auto Maxx in Winston-Salem, can help you answer any questions you have about your maintaining or replacing your tires.