Category Archives: Tire Maintenance

Tire Rotation – Taking Charge of Car Maintenance

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Tire rotation involves rotating or repositioning tires by moving them from one side of the vehicle to the other. This can also include moving them from front to back. Tires can be prone to wear differently depending on their position, the condition of your suspension, as well as the way you drive. When your service technician rotates the tires on your car, typically the front tires are exchanged with the rear tires. In most cases the driver side tires stay on the driver side and the passenger side tires stay on that side, however with certain types of vehicles or tires this approach may vary.

Why is tire rotation necessary?

Tire rotation is an essential maintenance operation that over time will save you money by protecting your tire investment. Rotating your tires is so important because of the different ways front and rear tires wear. Front tires are subjected to much more pressure than rear tires, so the tread wears faster on the front tires. By rotating the tires, you can balance out the wear, getting the most out of all four tires, and making sure that all four tires have a safe amount of tread. This is why regular tire rotation also enhances driving safety. And as if safety were not reason enough to have regular tire rotations done, keep in mind that inconsistent  tread wear can lead to poor performance and bad gas mileage.

You spend a lot of money on those tires! Why not protect your investment? Tire rotation service will keep your vehicle safe and to keep your tires properly maintained to get the most from them.    

How often is tire rotation necessary?

Generally speaking,  tire rotation is recommended every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Your service manual will provide you with the best maintenance schedule for your particular make and model vehicle.

Next in our Taking Charge of Car Maintenance series, we will look at Coolant Flushes.

Taking Charge of Car Maintenance

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Let’s face it – it’s human nature to put things off. To make matters worse,  in this age of extreme multi-tasking it just seems like there are more and more things to do in a day. If you are like me, the things you tend to procrastinate on are the things you are not sure about or just don’t understand very well. For example, this is the time of year when my husband starts getting nervous, telling me that we really need to sit down and work on our taxes. I literally shudder.

When it comes to tires and car maintenance, for me, that’s a whole different story. Probably because I am passionate about all things automotive, but also because I understand so much about auto maintenance. The more you know about car maintenance, the more likely you will be to take charge and get things done. Not only will you understand what needs to be done, you will have a clearer picture of why car maintenance services are so important.

Over the next few weeks, I will offer a more in depth look at some of the maintenance services that need to be  done regularly:

My goal with this series is not to make you an expert, but to help you understand these services and why they are important, so you can take charge of your car maintenance.

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.

Nothing Says “I Love You” Like Tire Safety

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Image courtesy of www.vintagevalentinemuseum.com

Valentine’s Day is this Friday – don’t forget to treat your special someone right! And remember that one of the best ways to show folks you love them is by taking care of their tires. Not only will you be keeping them safer, you will give them the gifts of better gas mileage and longer tire life!

Properly inflated tires are the key to tire care. Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual to confirm the manufacturer’s recommendation for proper tire pressure. While you’ll see a tire pressure number on the tire, remember that number is the maximum pressure.  The number specified in the manual will be the ideal level of inflation.

Remove the valve cap and press the tire gauge on the valve stem. The hissing sound you hear will stop once you press all the way down. After only a few seconds, you can get an accurate reading. When you hit  the right pressure, replace the valve cap. Repeat this process for the remaining tires.

When the tires need air, they can be filled with a portable compressor or one of the air pumps available at most gas stations. The process of filling the tires is similar to checking the pressure. Rather than pressing the gauge to the valve stem, you will press the fitting on the air hose to the stem.  Watch  the pressure gauge until it reaches the right pressure level. If you happen to over inflate, you can easily remove the excess air from the tires by applying pressure with the gauge and rechecking the tire. The more you check your tires, the better you will be at knowing how long you need to inflate to get the right pressure.

It is important to note that even if  tires look good, that does not mean the pressure is right. By the time a tire looks underinflated tire pressure is too low – be sure to catch it before then!

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balancing – What’s the Difference?

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Dear Tracy,

Do I need to have both wheel alignment and tire balancing services on my car? If so, can you tell me what the difference is between these services?

-Jake B.

Dear Jake,

Wheel alignment and tire balancing are two separate services, and you do need to have both done on your car. Each of these services will extend tire life and improve the performance of your tires.  While you should check your owner’s manual to find out the recommended schedule for your car, wheel balancing is usually required more frequently than wheel alignment.

As you drive your tires lose balance, so periodic tire balancing service is needed to return proper balance. Over time, tread wear causes the distribution of weight around the tire to change, which causes  the imbalance. This may be felt in unusual shaking or vibration as you drive. When performing tire balancing service, the technician will use a calibrated spin balancer, testing non-moving  or static balance as well as moving or dynamic balance. Tires will be adjusted to the proper balance in accordance with the test results. Tire balancing is usually done in combination with tire rotation, usually every 5-6,000 miles or 6 months.

Wheel alignment is service you may also hear referred to as “front end alignment” or “tire alignment.” The process involves the adjustment of the angle of your car’s wheels to the original position recommended by the car manufacturer. Wheel alignment includes inspecting tire tread for signs of poor alignment. The technician will also check  the toe, camber, and caster to precisely measure wheel orientation. Following the inspection, the actual service will include all of the necessary adjustments. Wheel alignment checks are usually recommended every 10,000 miles. But if you notice the vehicle pulling to one side, or if the vehicle has recently been in a collision, you should have it checked right away.

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.

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.

Ready For Winter?

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Be Prepared with these Five Winter Maintenance Jobs

Even if you aren’t ready for the coldest time of the year, at least make sure your car is! These five winter maintenance jobs will help get you ready for winter weather driving:

  • Check your antifreeze
    Fresh, quality antifreeze provides your vehicle with essential winter protection. Make sure your vehicle has a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze. The antifreeze amount should be kept at the full line.
  • Check Your Tires
    The pressure on all tires, including the spare, should be checked monthly, with a reliable gauge and when the tires are cold. Though it may seem logical, do not go by the pressure stamped on the sidewall of the tire. To find out the proper pressure levels for your vehicle, check the owner’s manual or the sticker that is most often located on the driver-side door jamb. Pre-winter is also a good time to check your tire tread depth. Your tires need at least 2/32″ of depth to be safe, but more is even better. Use the penny test you make sure your tread depth is okay. If you have any doubts, check with your tire dealer to be sure your tread is safe.
  • Make Sure Your Battery is Charged
    Extreme weather, including cold temperatures, can  break down car batteries internally and can accelerate the rate of corrosion on battery terminals. This can lead to insufficient electrical power and the risk of being stranded. It is a good idea to check the battery cables and ensure they are securely attached to the terminals. Clean the terminals if there are signs of corrosion.  Typically, car batteries have a three to five year service life, depending on local climate and vehicle usage patterns.
  • Check your windshield washer fluid
    We tend to use more washer fluid as salt, sludge and snow sprays continually bombard our windshields. You don’t want to be “that person” with the car that looks like it’s just been pulled from a lake. More importantly, you want to make sure you can SEE so you can drive safely. Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with winter cleaning solution that contains enough antifreeze components to keep it from freezing.
  • Replace your wipers
    In order for the wiper fluid to do its job, you need wipers that are in top shape to keep your windshield clean and safe. The blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Replace any blade that leaves streaks or misses spots. In regions where snow is common, consider installing winter wiper blades that wrap the blade frame in a rubber boot to reduce ice and snow buildup that can prevent good contact between the blade and the glass.

You can perform these maintenance steps yourself, or you can stop by your auto service shop to make sure everything looks good. Just make sure you get it done before Jack Frost gets here!

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

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Dear Tracy,

My friend just purchased a new car and one of its features is an internal system that monitors tire pressure. Can you tell me how this system works?

-Becca G.

Dear Becca,

A tire pressure monitoring system, also referred to as a TPMS, is an electronic system that continuously monitors the air pressure of all four tires. The TPMS alerts the driver when tire pressure falls below a preset limit by illuminating a warning light on the dashboard.

As of 2008, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has required that all passenger cars, light trucks and vans (Gross weight less than 10,000 pounds) be equipped with a TPMS. Earlier model vehicles can be retro-fitted with a tire pressure monitoring system installed by a qualified service professional.

Tire pressure monitoring systems come in two designs –  direct and indirect. A direct monitoring system places a pressure sensor on each tire, usually on the valve stem or band mounted. The sensors used in direct systems are powered by separate lithium batteries, which ultimately need replacement. This means that direct tire pressure monitoring systems need to be serviced regularly and should be part of scheduled maintenance.

The technology used in indirect tire pressure monitoring systems is based on the calculation of factors, including tire size. The diameter of a tire is smaller when it is not properly inflated, and when one tire is smaller than the other three, it will have to spin faster to keep up. Speed sensors applied at each wheel position identify an underinflated tire by comparing the rotational speed of each wheel with the average speed of all four wheels.  This calculation is used to determine if one is spinning significantly faster than the others, and therefore underinflated. While the indirect system does not require servicing, the design does have some issues, such as the problem that if all four tires are underinflated, the system may not detect an abnormality.

All tire pressure monitoring systems installed on 2008 vehicles and later are required to detect and warn the driver when the system is not functioning properly through a malfunction indicator. For some systems, a malfunction is indicated by a flashing of the low tire pressure warning light for a period 60 to 90 seconds with the warning lamp remaining illuminated following the flash sequence. The flash and illumination sequence will repeat at each subsequent vehicle start-up until the problem is addressed. If your vehicle has a TPMS, be sure that you are familiar with the malfunction warning for your specific system.

Nitrogen or Air: What’s in Your Tires?

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Dear Tracy,

I am considering inflating my tires with nitrogen instead of air. Can you tell me if there are benefits to using  nitrogen, or is it not that much different than air?

-Rick H.

Dear Rick,

According to the nitrogen proponents, benefits to choosing nitrogen over air include increased fuel economy, longer tire life, and improved handling.  Though the air ordinarily used to fill tires is 78% nitrogen, supposedly filling with pure (93% to 95%) nitrogen does make a difference.

Nitrogen is reported be less affected by outside temperatures and more reliable for maintaining tire pressure. Because nitrogen is supposed to do a better job of keeping pressure under hot and cold conditions, it can improve gas mileage, increase tire life, and is safer because tires are not as likely to blow-out at high speeds. Since nitrogen is dry and does not support combustion, it has long been used for aircraft and racing cars, which require tires to run extremely hot.

Another advantage advocates tout with nitrogen is that it is a dry gas, and as such reduces oxygen and moisture. The reason this is significant is because oxidation accelerates as the tires heat up, leading to  damage to the tire and wheel. The moisture in air increases oxidation and pressure fluctuation.

So, the question is, are these claims true? Some research suggests that while there may be advantages to nitrogen use, the tangible benefits tend to be modest.  Since you usually have to pay for nitrogen inflation, some feel the benefits are not worth the expense.

It is important to note that whether you choose air or nitrogen, the key is tire pressure. Checking and maintaining proper tire pressure will assure you of longer tire life, improved safety, and better gas mileage, whether you fill with nitrogen or regular air.