With summer in full swing, the Tire Industry Association (TIA) is offering tire care tips to share with your customers as drivers take advantage of the warm weather to accomplish some much-needed maintenance for their cars while also gearing up to embark upon vacation road trips.
“Many people take their tires for granted, but they are one of the most critical pieces of equipment on your automobile,” says TIA Senior Vice President of Training Kevin Rohlwing. “So, people should take advantage of these warm summer months to make sure their tires are properly cared for. Otherwise, the results of improper tire care can be costly – and potentially disastrous.”
Rohlwing addresses five key consumer points:
1. Don’t use petroleum- or silicone-based tire shines/cleaners. Most people don’t realize that some of the most popular tire shines and cleaners on the market have a negative effect on the additives that tire manufacturers use in tires to help prevent ozone damage or dry rot.
2. Visually inspect your tires and check their pressure every month. Look for things such as cracking and/or irregular wear, and make sure all tires are properly inflated. Check the owner’s manual or the placard on the inside of the drivers-side door to determine the correct inflation, and always check the pressure first thing in the morning, when tires are “cold.”
3. Use a penny to make sure you have enough tread. Put a one-cent piece in the major tread groove of each tire. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, it’s most likely time to buy a replacement tire.
4. Don’t forget to pay attention to your spare tire. The wrong time to check a spare tire is when it is needed. Thus, make sure it is in proper working condition now. Additionally, make sure the jack is in working order.
5. Be sure not to overload your tires. Many summertime activities involve a lot of luggage and equipment, and when you factor in the weight of the passengers it can be too much for your tires to safely handle. Make sure to check the owner’s manual to ensure the maximum allowable limit is not being exceeded.
For more information, visit www.tireindustry.org.
