Maintaining your tires is critical to your safety, fuel economy, and vehicle performance. Avoid these five common tire maintenance mistakes to stay safe.

1. Ignoring Tire Pressure Checks

Driving with incorrect tire pressure causes uneven wear and poor fuel efficiency. It can also lead to dangerous blowouts.

Fix:
Check your tire pressure every month. Use a digital gauge and follow the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.

Bonus Tip:
Don’t forget to check the pressure in your spare tire, too.

2. Overlooking Valve Stem Damage

Worn or cracked valve stems leak air and trigger tire pressure warning lights. They can lead to flat tires over time.

Fix:
Inspect valve stems when checking pressure. Replace damaged stems immediately with rubber or metal replacements from trusted suppliers.

Product Tip:
Carry a valve stem tool in your glove box for quick repairs.

3. Delaying Tire Rotation

Tires wear unevenly if not rotated. This reduces traction, increases noise, and shortens tire life significantly.

Fix:
Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Follow a rotation pattern recommended for your vehicle type.

4. Ignoring the TPMS Warning Light

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) detects pressure changes. Many drivers ignore the warning, risking tire damage or failure.

Fix:
Address TPMS warnings immediately. Check all four tires and replace faulty sensors if needed.

5. Using Tires Beyond Their Life Span

Old tires lose traction and become more likely to fail. Many drivers miss the signs of aging or dry rot.

Fix:
Replace tires every six years, even with good tread. Look for cracks, bulges, or rubber hardening as warning signs.

Final Thoughts

Tire maintenance is simple and can save lives. Stay alert, check your tires monthly, and replace parts as needed.

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