How to Avoid Common Tire Problems on the Road

Once you’re close to retirement, you don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on your car. You might still make a few larger fixes to your engine or interior, but many older drivers don’t realize how vital their tires are to driving safely.

If something happens to your tires, then you’re in a dangerous situation that can lead to injuries and repairs, or even fatalities. That is why it is important to learn how to avoid common tire problems and drive safely every day.

1. Check Your Tire Pressure Monthly

Under-inflated tires are a leading cause of tire failure. When air pressure is low, the tire’s surface area increases, creating more friction and heat. This can lead to a blowout, especially at high speeds on highways.

On the flip side, over-inflated tires have less contact with the road, reducing traction and making your ride bumpier.

How to do it:

• Find the right number: Check your owner's manual or the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb for the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). Do not use the maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall.
• Check when cool: Tire pressure changes with heat. For the most accurate reading, check your tires in the morning before you’ve driven anywhere.
• Don’t forget the spare: If you have a spare tire, make sure it’s inflated and ready for an emergency.

2. Monitor Tread Depth

Tread provides the grip your car needs to stop, start, and turn, particularly on wet or slippery roads. As you rack up miles commuting, that tread wears down. Once it gets too low, your risk of hydroplaning increases significantly.

3. Rotate Your Tires Regularly

Tires don't wear evenly. Usually, the front tires carry more weight (due to the engine) and handle all the steering, causing them to wear down faster than the rear tires. Rotating them ensures that wear is spread evenly across all four tires, extending their lifespan.

Neglecting to rotate your tires can lead to increased wear on your front tires, leaving your vehicle vulnerable to blowouts and flats. Improper maintenance can also void your warranty if you have certain clauses in place. Closer to retirement, it is important to look for a reliable tire warranty and avoid the extra costs of replacing your tires.

4. Inspect for Visible Damage

You don't need to be a mechanic to spot trouble. Make it a habit to visually inspect your tires every time you fill up with gas. Look for cracks or cuts in the sidewall and check the entire tire for bulges or blisters that indicate a weak point that could lead to a blowout.

If you spot anything suspicious, head to a professional immediately. Catching a small puncture early often means a simple, affordable repair rather than a full replacement.

Drive with Confidence

Avoiding common tire problems makes your everyday commutes that much better. Your tires work hard to get you to work, school, and home safely, so spend some time taking care of them.

Next time you head out, take a moment to look at your tires. It’s a small investment of time that pays off in safety, savings, and peace of mind.