Monthly Archives: September 2024

Fall is the Time to Shop for Winter Tires

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As the leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, now is the time to start thinking about your vehicle’s readiness for the winter months ahead. This includes thinking about whether or not you need winter tires, and if so, when is the best time to buy them.

Fall Roads - Time to think about Winter TiresDo you need winter tires? 

The answer to this question will largely depend on the weather in your region and how often you drive in snow or ice. In some areas, drivers are very affected by the weather, and depend greatly on how quickly the roads get cleared before they can get to work. If this describes your situation, then winter tires would probably be a good investment for you. Winter tires offer superior grip when driving, stopping, and cornering.

A potential drawback with winter tires is that they tend to wear faster than all-season tires. This is because the tread is designed to bite into snow and ice, and the softer rubber is formulated to stay pliable at freezing temperatures. As long as you change back to your all-season tires in the spring, your investment should last for several seasons.

Is it too early to shop for winter tires? 

Here are four reasons why you shouldn’t wait until you see snowflakes to think about winter tires.

  1. Beat the Rush – Once the first signs of winter appear, tire shops become flooded with customers scrambling to get their winter tires installed. By shopping in the fall, you can avoid long wait times and ensure you get the best tires for your vehicle before stocks run low.
  2. Get the Best Selection – Shopping for winter tires early in the season means you’ll have a wider variety of options to choose from. As demand increases, stores are more likely to run out of popular models and sizes. Whether you’re looking for studded tires for icy roads or performance winter tires for snowy highways, fall gives you the best chance to find exactly what you need.
  3. Prepare for Sudden Weather Changes – The season’s first winter weather tends to catch us by surprise. An early snowstorm can leave you unprepared if you haven’t equipped your car with winter tires yet. Having your winter tires installed early ensures you’re ready for anything the weather throws your way, giving you peace of mind as fall transitions into winter.
  4. Enjoy Early Discounts – Many tire retailers offer discounts and promotions in the fall, knowing that savvy shoppers want to get ahead of the winter rush. By taking advantage of these deals, you can save money on quality winter tires while avoiding the stress of last-minute shopping.

While you are driving around, enjoying the colors of fall, remember the big chill is just around the corner! Shop for winter tires now and stay safe on the road all season long!

What to Expect During a Basic Tire Inspection at the Auto Shop

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As drivers we hear a lot about certain auto services that are important for maintaining vehicle safety and performance, but we may not know much about what those services entail. If you have ever wondered what is involved with a basic tire inspection and how necessary it really is, this post is for you!

Basic Tire Inspection

When you bring your car to an auto shop for a routine tire inspection, the technician will perform a series of checks and evaluations to confirm that your tires are in good condition and safe for the road. The following are some of the checks that typically happen during a basic tire inspection:

Tire Pressure 

The technician will check the pressure level on each tire. Proper inflation ensures optimal road contact, improves fuel efficiency, and extends tire life. A pressure gauge is used to measure the PSI (pounds per square inch) of each tire, and this reading is compared to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. If you are ever checking tire pressure on your own, you can usually find correct pressure in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or inside the driver’s side door.

Why it’s necessary: Correct tire pressure is important because underinflated tires can lead to poor handling, increased fuel consumption, and excessive tire wear. Conversely, overinflated tires may cause reduced traction and a rougher ride. Always trying to keep your tires at the proper levels.

Tread Depth Measurement

The technician will measure the tread depth of each tire using a tread depth gauge. This is crucial to ensuring your tires have enough grip on the road, especially in wet or icy conditions. In most cases, a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch is the legal minimum, though experts recommend replacing tires when the tread depth falls below 4/32 of an inch for safety reasons.

Why it’s necessary: Worn tires with insufficient tread depth can lead to poor traction, longer stopping distances, and a higher risk of hydroplaning. Good tread depth is also important for achieving optimal gas mileage. Inconsistent treadwear can also be an indicator of alignment issues, which can impact tire service life.

Visual Inspection for Damage

Next, the technician will visually inspect the tires for any visible damage, such as cuts, punctures, cracks, or bulges in the sidewalls. These issues could indicate potential hazards, such as a blowout or slow air leaks, and may require immediate repair or tire replacement. Valve stems and caps will also be inspected for any cracks, leaks, or missing caps. 

Why it’s necessary: Even small punctures or sidewall damage can lead to serious tire failure, posing a safety risk to both the driver and others on the road. A faulty valve stem can cause a slow air leak, leading to a gradual loss of tire pressure, which can be dangerous and reduce fuel efficiency.

Alignment and Balance Check

Although not always part of a basic tire inspection, many shops will offer to check the alignment and balance of your tires if uneven wear is detected. Misaligned or unbalanced tires can cause the vehicle to pull to one side, uneven tire wear, and a less comfortable ride.

Why it’s necessary: Proper alignment and balance ensure smooth driving, reduce tire wear, and enhance fuel efficiency.

Tire Rotation 

If your tires show signs of uneven wear, the technician may recommend a tire rotation. Rotating your tires regularly (every 5,000 to 8,000 miles) ensures even wear, extends tire life, and improves overall vehicle performance.

Why it’s necessary: Regular tire rotation helps to maximize the lifespan of your tires, saving you money in the long run.

Basic tire inspections are typically recommended every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or approximately every six months, depending on your driving habits and the type of vehicle you drive. Many drivers choose to have their tires inspected during routine oil changes to ensure regular maintenance. However, you should also consider scheduling a tire inspection:

  • Before a long road trip to ensure your tires are in optimal condition
  • Noticing issues such as unusual vibrations, pulling, or uneven tire wear patterns
  • When there’s a noticeable drop in tire pressure or the TPMS light comes on

A basic tire inspection is an easy auto service checkup that will help to ensure your tires are safe, efficient, and ready for the road. By keeping your tires in good condition, you’ll enjoy better performance, improved fuel efficiency, and greater peace of mind while driving.