Category Archives: Safe Driving

Tire Siping for Winter Driving

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Dear Tracy,

I recently heard about process called tire siping. Apparently this is something you can have done to your tires to improve traction and handling on snow and ice. Is this something I should do this fall, before winter arrives?

-Duncan S.

Dear Duncan,

Tire siping is a process that involves cutting slices across the tire tread. The idea is that the slice spreads open on the road surface, griping it and dispersing water to improve tire traction.

The concept of siping actually began with shoe rubber, not tires. In the early 20’s a slaughterhouse employee by the name of John Sipe found a solution to the problem of his shoes slipping on the wet floor. Sipe tried cutting groves into the bottoms of his rubber shoes and discovered that it greatly improved their traction. Mr. Sipe had the foresight to realize that his discovery would be useful and had the concept patented. About 30 years later, by the 1950’s, tire manufacturers were widely using the siping concept in their tire tread designs. Specialized siping patterns are still used today for a variety of tires.

As to whether or not after-market tire siping is a good idea, opinions differ. Tire siping machines have been developed do a variety of configurations for after-market tire modification. Those who believe in tire siping contend that it offers significant performance and safety benefits. The problem with siping, others say, is that today’s tire manufacturers already use siping in the design and manufacture of new tires. Extensive engineering and performance testing goes into modern tread design, so many experts believe there is no need for after-market modification. Another consideration is that after-market siping could void your tread-wear warranty.

When considering tire siping, first talk to your tire dealer about  the type, condition, and age of your tires. Rather than make irreversible changes to your tires, consider purchasing a quality set of winter tires, which are designed to incorporate siping features and benefits.

About Automotive Recalls

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Dear Tracy,

I have recently become a new car owner for the first time in my life, and am super excited to finally own a vehicle that I can rely on! It did occur to me, though, that there are sometimes recalls on cars. Can you explain what a car recall means, how I will know if there is one, and what I need to do?

Thanks,

Grace M.

Dear Grace,

Congratulations on your new car! Odds are great that you will have many worry-free miles ahead before you have any issues, providing that you take good care of your vehicle and tires. Automotive recalls do happen, however, so your questions are good ones to ask.

The reason for an automotive recall to be issued is that a problem has been discovered, which poses a risk of injury or property damage. It can be the manufacturer that issues the recall, or sometimes recalls are ordered by the U.S. Department of Transportation through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, upon investigation of problems that have been reported.

While car owners may learn of a recall on the news or by word-of-mouth, an official letter is sent to vehicle owners concerning specific auto recalls. This should be considered confirmation that there is an issue with your specific make and model. A recall letter will include detailed information about the nature of the problem or defect. Instructions are provided regarding what your next steps should be to remedy the problem, as well as the time frame within which the vehicle needs to be brought in for the corrective measures. All issues should be rectified at no cost to you. Drivers who have had repairs done prior to the issuance of a recall may be eligible for reimbursement with the proper receipts or paperwork.

Vehicle owners of used cars, or other owners who fear they may miss delivery of a recall notification letter for some reason, can also contact an authorized dealership for more information if they hear about a recall.

New Study Reveals Teen Drivers Lack Basic Safety Knowledge

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While most teens are more than excited to get that coveted driver’s permit, a new study just released by Michelin and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile reveals that teen drivers may be less than ready to drive, lacking the basic safe driving knowledge and skills they need.  According to the study, this lack of education may result in nearly 300,000 preventable car crashes involving inexperienced drivers each year.

According to the study, which surveyed 1,001 U.S. teen drivers ranging from 15 to 17 years along with their parents, many of these young drivers lack the ability to change a tire, spot insufficient tread depth, or check tire pressure. This knowledge gap has led to serious consequences:

“Of the 2.2 million vehicle accidents per year, 12 percent are among inexperienced drivers and involve tire-related issues such as insufficient tire tread or improperly inflated tires, a number which is nearly three times higher than with experienced drivers. That equates to one accident every two minutes.”

Michelin North America Inc. Chairman Pete Selleck wants to raise awareness about the issue, and  wants to see driver education programs address the issue of preventable accidents, which too often end in death. He’d like to see state governments expand or add tire-safety education in driver-education courses. Reportedly, only 16 states currently require tire-safety information as part of their driver education programs. As Selleck notes, “It’s troubling to see this data and know that underinflated tires, or tires with worn treads are contributing to these accidents.”

If you have a teen driver at home, contact your driver education instructor to see if they include tire safety programs. If not, take some time to educate them on topics like handling a blow out, handling hydroplaning, and proper tire care. Investing the time now will lead to safe driving habits for a lifetime!

Don’t Blow It During a Blowout!

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Even experienced drivers  know what a frightening situation it is to have a tire blow out while driving at highway speeds. Keeping your tires well-maintained and at the right pressure is important for preventing a blowout, but road debris can destroy a perfectly good tire at any time.

If you happen to be in the unfortunate situation of a blowout, try to remember not to panic. It’s essential that you retain control and balance of your vehicle. If you hit the brakes too hard or take your foot off the accelerator too quickly, you will lose stability and control.

The most effective way to maneuver through a tire blowout is to first slowly take your foot off the accelerator. Then, as you gradually reduce speed, correct your steering until you regain control and stabilize the vehicle. By this time it should be safe for you to slowly pull off the road. No matter which side of the vehicle, or whether the blow occurs in the front or back, a tire blow out should always be handled the same way.

Though you should handle every blowout the same way, front and rear tire blowouts do not feel the same. A front blowout is felt in the steering of the vehicle, while a rear blowout is felt in the vehicle’s body.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) website, www.safercar.gov, has some helpful flash animation videos that demonstrate what to do and what not to do in the event of a blow out:

What not to do in a front tire blowout situation.

What to do in a front tire blowout situation

 

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

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After what has seemed like an extra long winter, Memorial Day weekend is finally here. First and foremost, Memorial Day is all about gratefully remembering those who have given their lives in service to our nation. It is also a time for gathering with family and friends to enjoy fun and relaxation. For many, the long weekend provides the opportunity to take a road trip.

If you are planning to travel this weekend, take some time to make sure your vehicle is ready for the road.  Check your tires, and confirm that they are in good condition and properly inflated. Not only will you be safer on the road, you will also get better gas mileage.  Here are a few additional tips:

  • Test your battery
  • Check your lights to make sure all are working
  • Make sure wiper blades are in good shape
  • Check fluid levels
  • Pack roadside emergency items like jumper cables and travel compressor

Here are a few additional suggestions to consider for a smoother trip:

  • Download an app like GasBuddy to make sure you find the best gas prices along the way
  • Check out the Waze app for real-time traffic info
  • Pack snacks and drinks for the car to save time and money
  • Make sure your maps are up-to-date – whether paper or GPS
  • Plan your route and stops before you leave
  • Bring along a cell phone charger with a car adaptor
  • Bring an umbrella – no matter what the forecast says

Whatever your plans are, have a fun and safe Memorial Day Weekend!

How Old Are My Tires?

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Dear Tracy,

I was recently given a 2004 Ford Focus by my great aunt. She feels that she is too old to be driving and knew that I was in need of transportation. While I greatly appreciate the car, I am a bit concerned because she did not keep any maintenance records and is not sure how old the tires are. She did not drive a lot, so they look pretty good, but how can I know for sure?

Peter S.

Dear Peter,

While tire tread depth is a pretty reliable standard for determining the condition of a tire, tire rubber compounds do deteriorate over time, regardless of wear and mileage. As a tire ages, cracks in the rubber develop, which can be on the inside as well as the outside of the tire. Eventually, this cracking can cause the steel belts in the tread to separate from the rest of the tire. To see how this happens, you can view this animated demonstration, provided by Safety Research and Strategies, Inc.

There are many differing opinions regarding the lifespan of a tire. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) does not have specific guidelines on tire aging, but instead advise following the recommendations of carmakers and tire manufacturers. According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association, it is difficult to put an expiration date on a tire because such factors as heat, storage, and driving conditions can greatly impact the life of a tire.

So how can you determine if you need new tires? A good place to begin is to determine the age of the tires. Tires made after 2000 have a DOT code, as prescribed by the U.S. Department of Transportation. This code provides information about the tire, including its age. An easy way to decipher this code is by downloading a free app offered by the Tire Safety Group. Available for Android and iPhone users, the app allows you to get to get a free Tire Facts Report.  It offers an easy way to find out if a tire is old, defective, or has been recalled – all you need to do is enter the DOT code from your tire. If you are not sure how to find the code, the app shows you where it is on the tire and even includes a flashlight function so you can see what you are doing!

Once you know how old the tires are, you may want to take your car in for an inspection by a trustworthy auto service provider. Not only can they help you determine if you need new tires, they can let you know if you need any other services as well.

Handling Hydroplaning

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Dear Tracy,

All the rain we have been getting in my area has me very worried about hydroplaning and getting into an accident. Can you explain what exactly happens when a car hydroplanes and how best to handle the situation?

Bret B.

Dear Bret,

Hydroplaning is much like skidding or sliding, but actually has the potential to be much more dangerous because it is nearly impossible to control. It happens when water pressure causes your car to rise up and slide on a thin layer of water, during which time your tires lose contact with the road.

Anyone who has experienced hydroplaning can tell you, it is an extremely frightening situation. If hydroplaning does ever occur while you are driving, fight the urge to brake or turn suddenly. Ease your foot off the gas until the car slows and you can feel the contact with the road. If you do have to brake, do it with a light pumping action. Most vehicles now have anti-lock braking systems that will safely and effectively pump automatically as you brake.

The good news is that hydroplaning is highly preventable. A number of avoidable factors contribute to the likelihood of hydroplaning including:
• worn tire tread
• improper inflation
• driving at high speeds

The tread on your tires has been designed to prevent hydroplaning by channeling and dispersing water and slush away from the face of the tire. Worn tread is unable to do this because the channels lack the required depth. Under-inflated tires also lack the ability to disperse water properly. Traveling at high speed is a problem, too, because the tire does not have enough time to push the water out of the way, as it is meant to do. Keeping your tires in good condition and driving smart in inclement weather will go a long way in preventing hydroplaning. Remember to slow down when driving through rain, snow, or slush, particularly when turning or on curves. Always try to avoid driving through puddles or standing water.

Do Fuel Additives = Better Gas Mileage?

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Dear Tracy,

I can’t afford a more fuel efficient car right now, but the high price of gas in my area is killing my budget. I have heard that certain fuel additives are available that can improve the gas mileage of my car. Is this true?

Hayden R.

Dear Hayden,

While the claims of fuel additive makers may sound great, you are wise to be skeptical. Advertising can often promote substantial gas savings, however, according to  the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Information website, those claims generally have little to back them up.

Decades of research and technology have gone into the development of today’s vehicle engines. Engineers have a keen understanding of the demands placed on engines – they are engineered for optimal performance under the most taxing conditions, and built to be reliable with proper maintenance. While some fuel additives may provide some modest benefits, your engine was developed to provide optimal performance without the need for enhancements like these. If you still have questions, rather than trust a clerk at your local auto supply chain, check with your mechanic. He or she will have the knowledge and experience to advise you on the needs of your particular vehicle.

In the meantime, here’s a few quick tips that will help you improve your gas mileage:

Keep your tires at the right pressure

Always check your tire pressure and keep them inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

Do not neglect  oil changes

Stay on schedule and use the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil for optimal performance.

Regularly check tire tread

Remember that worn out tires are not only unsafe, they cause your vehicle to operate less efficiently.

Use cruise control  on the highway

Maintaining a safe and consistent speed will keep you from getting a ticket and improve your gas mileage.

Always combine trips

Plan your trips – you’ll be surprised to discover how much you can save on the gas budget.

Winter Tires: Does a Four-Wheel Drive Vehicle Need Them?

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Dear Tracy,

This fall I replaced my car with a “new” used  four-wheel drive vehicle. The guy I bought it from said that with four-wheel drive I do not have to worry about driving in bad weather.  Now that winter is here I am wondering if this means I do not need snow tires for winter driving. Can you tell me?

Sandy T.

Dear Sandy,

While a four-wheel drive vehicle does provide some performance advantages, driving a truck, SUV or crossover with four-wheel drive does not eliminate the need for winter tires to allow for safe driving in snow and ice.

Four-wheel drive by design does offer more power than two-wheel drive. That is why four-wheel drive vehicles are less likely to get stuck and may accelerate faster. The problem is that winter driving is also about stopping and cornering; without the assistance of winter tires, four-wheel drive offers little advantage in these areas. Additionally, four-wheel drive vehicles tend to be heavier and may take longer to come to a stop.

Winter tires are made from a softer rubber than all season tires, which allows them to provide better road grip and handling. The open tread design is another feature that gives winter tires better handling capability on slush and snow.

Four-wheel-drive vehicles typically come with large, wide tires so it is especially important to consider the switch to winter tires, if you know you will be encountering a lot of snow and slush. Due to the larger surface area of the tires, they may not cut through snow as efficiently and may be likely to hydroplane.

Make a Resolution to Take Better Care of Your Tires

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This time of year finds folks making new year’s resolutions to take better care of themselves, with goals such as losing weight, eating healthy, and exercising more. These are all great ideas that can help you feel better and live longer.

In addition to taking better care of yourself, you can also resolve to take better care of your tires. Here’s a list of simple tire care resolutions that will help your tires perform better and last longer. You will also enjoy the benefit of  better gas mileage and enhanced safety on the road.

Check Your Tire Tread

Insert a penny, positioned so that “In God We Trust” appears across the top,  into five different sections of the tire, paying attention to the visibility of Lincoln’s head. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, your treads are worn out and it’s time to get a new set of tires.

Check Tire Pressure

Take a few minutes to check your tire pressure at least once a month.  It does not take long to do, and it could save you big by extending your tire life and improving gas mileage. Check your owner’s manual to confirm the proper pressure for your vehicle’s tires. Keep in mind that the maximum pressure is not the same as the recommended pressure.

Tire Rotation

Regular tire rotation is an important part of maintenance that will significantly extend the life of your tires. Manufacturers have specific recommendations for their vehicles. It’s important to refer to your owner’s manual tire rotation guidelines to maintain proper tread wear.

Tire Balancing

Tire balancing should be part of your regular service routine.  This should be done according to your owner’s manual recommended schedule. Tire balancing allows for a smooth ride and promotes even tire wear by correctly adjusting the wheel weight distribution around the vehicle.

Tire Alignment

Tires that are out of alignment will not only decrease the life of your tires with uneven tread wear, they also compromise the safety of your vehicle. Have the alignment inspected if you notice problems with your vehicle’s handling.

Spare Tire Check

Check to make sure your spare tire is in good condition. Monitor the tire pressure of your spare when you check the pressure of your other tires, so your spare is ready when you need it. Remember that a spare is intended for temporary use only, so you will need to go tire shopping as soon as possible.