Monthly Archives: October 2022

Don’t Let Old Tires Sneak Up On You

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What is the most frightening thing about the photo below? You might say it is the eerie red exhaust or the strange illuminated masks. Actually, it is the fact that these unfortunate souls are driving a car with OLD TIRES! Driving on old tires is one of the most dangerous things you can do. Read on to find out why.

Scary Halloween Driving on Old Tires

Why Old Tires Are Scary

Old tires may not show any obvious signs of deterioration. While they may appear to be safe, usable tires, cracks can develop both on the inside and the outside of the tire. Since the rubber compounds used in tires degrade over time, cracks will develop in the rubber, regardless of mileage and wear. Ultimately, this cracking leads to the steel belts in the tread separating from the rest of the tire.

The Rubber Manufacturers Association reports that putting an expiration date on a tire can be difficult since factors such as heat, driving, and storage conditions can greatly impact the usable life of a tire. The recommendation of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is to refer to the guidelines set by the specific tire manufacturer when it comes to tire aging and usable life.

Finding Out How Old Your Tires Are

Not unsure how old your tires are? In the United States, the Department of Transportation requires tires to have a DOT code. With this code, you can learn details about the tire, including its age.

Tire Code DOT Showing Date of Manufacture

This Edmonds video breaks down how to interpret that code, including when your tires were manufactured:

Pay Attention to Tire Condition

Regularly looking at your tire tread means you’ll be more likely to notice wear trends before excessive damage can occur. Issues can be identified by visual inspection or by running your hand over the tread and feeling for problematic areas. 

Keeping your tires inflated to the correct level is an important part of tire maintenance that will extend tire life, as is regularly scheduled tire maintenance, including wheel alignment and tire rotation.

If your tires are damaged, old, worn or otherwise compromised, don’t risk the dangers of a blowout or a wreck! Buy new tires as soon as possible!

October is Fall Car Care Month

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Fall Car Care Month is the perfect time to make sure that your car is ready for winter and current on all maintenance and repair needs. Basic auto service and repairs can go a long way in improving the safety and dependability of your car. 

Fall Car Care Vehicle On Lift

Does Your Car Know Something You Don’t?

In celebration of Fall Car Care month, many shops across the country will be holding free vehicle check-up events.  According to the Car Care Council, last year, many vehicle owners were likely surprised by what they found out. Vehicle check-ups at community car care events across the country last year revealed that 80% of vehicles needed immediate service or parts.

Fall Car Care Maintenance Steps

hat you do today can go a long way toward improving the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Regular car care can also help avoid costly repairs down the road, saving you both time and money. Here are some fall maintenance procedures that will help your vehicle operate at its best before the winter season arrive:

Check all fluids – Window washer solvent, anti-freeze/coolant as well as engine oil, power steering, brake & transmission.

Check the battery – Replace if necessary. Ensure the connection is tight, clean, and free of corrosion.

Check hoses & belts – Make sure they are not loose, cracked, brittle, or even showing signs of excessive wear.

Check your brakes – Annual brake checks are suggested. As well as taking a look at the rotors, drums & brake linings.

Inspect the exhaust system – Leaks, damage & broken elements can occur. Inspect for unusual behaviors or loud noises.

Check your engine – Your vehicle craves the best balance of power & fuel economy while producing the lowest level of emissions.

Check your wipers – It’s important to see and be seen during winter driving. Check all the interior and exterior lighting.

Check heating/HVAC system – Proper heating & cooling performance is crucial for your safety.

Inspect steering & suspension – Annual checking is recommended. We would also encourage a review of other components like shock absorbers, struts, ball joints & tie rod ends.

Check your tires – Uneven wear and tears can greatly affect your safety. As can poorly inflated tires.

For more useful free content about vehicle maintenance, repair and enhancement visit the Car Care News Service website.