Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road when you drive, so taking good care of them is very important to the safe operation of your vehicle. By investing just a few minutes each month you can extend the service life of your tires and keep them working their best.

Check Your Air Pressure Once a Month

Incorrect air pressure is the leading cause of tire damage. To avoid trouble, check your tire's air pressure at least once a month. The correct tire pressure is listed on the vehicle placard and can be found in the following spots:

• In the owner's manual
• Under the gas tank lid
• Along the driver's side door edge
• Along the 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. Failure to keep your tires properly inflated can lead to premature wear and will have a negative effect on your vehicle's handling and fuel economy.

When checking and adjusting tire pressure, keep the following in mind:

• Check the air pressure when the tire is cold. Tires can heat up after driving just one mile. If you must drive to add air, check your air pressure before you leave. Air pressure changes 1 to 2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change, going up in warm weather and dropping in cold weather.
• Tire pressure must be the same on the tires of each axle, but may differ from the front to the 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 as soon as possible.
• Remember to check the pressure in your spare tire each month. 

Take this opportunity to inspect your tires to make sure there is nothing stuck in the tread and that there are no deformities, or cuts or bulges in the sidewall.

Tread Depth

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

The easiest way to check your tread depth is by performing the penny test. Place a penny into the tread of your tire. (Abe Lincoln's head first.) If you can see all of Abe's head, you need a new tire. Honest!

You should also check your tire tread for uneven and premature wear. Irregular wear shortens the service life of your tires. If you think your tires are wearing unevenly or too early, come in to any Mountain View Tire store. We can find the cause of the problem and repair it for you.

Tire Rotation

The best way to prevent uneven wear is to have your tires rotated every 5,000 to 6,000 miles or as often as specified in your owner's manual.

Potential Tire Troubles

• Curbs can be big trouble for your tires. Approach curbs with care. Driving over them too fast or at the wrong angle can actually cause a tire to crack.
• Avoid potholes or road debris whenever possible.
• Avoid fast stops and starts.
• Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's maximum load capacity. Overloading your vehicle can overheat your tires and shorten their lives.

Replacing Your Tires

When replacing your tires, choose the same type that came on your vehicle as original equipment. This includes tire size, type, and speed rating.