We know what they are and we know what they do, but do we know how to take care of them? Most of us don’t think about our tires until they are flat, but not only will proper tire maintenance save you money, it could save your life.

Check your tire pressure regularly — monthly and before long trips. You can purchase a traditional pencil gauge or an easy-to-read digital gauge. (Public pressure gauges are subject to abuse and may not be reliable.) Check all four tires when they’re “cold” (before startup) or after the car has set for at least three hours. Be sure to occasionally check your spare tire also. You will find the recommended psi (pounds per square inch) in the vehicle owner’s manual or on the driver’s side doorjamb; some vehicles may also have the information inside the fuel hatch filler flap or the glove compartment door. DO NOT rely on the pressure indicated on the tire; that is the maximum psi and does not take into account driving conditions and situations (speed, load, etc.).

Your tire gauge will tell you how much pressure is in the tire. If it’s under the recommendation, add some air… BUT DON’T OVERINFLATE. Because air expands when it’s hot and contracts when it’s cold, it’s best to inflate your tires in the morning before the day’s heat. Underinflated tires have greater friction with the road, causing your car to work harder and be less fuel-efficient; underinflation also causes unnecessary wear on tires.

Next check the wear on your tires. If the wear is excessive, you will see a smoothness that has replaced tread. A way to check tread wear is to enlist the help of our 16th president. Place a penny into the tire’s groove with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing toward you. If you can see the top of “honest Abe’s” head, it’s time for a new tire. Any tread depth less than 1/16 inch is not only dangerous, but is illegal in many states

Your driving style has an effect on the health and longevity of your tires. Do you drive fast? Driving at high speeds generates heat and will reduce the life of the tread. It’s also important to consider what you’re driving over. Avoid potholes, curbs, road kill and other obstructions.

Another way to keep your tires in good working order is to rotate them every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. Rotating your tires allows them to wear more evenly. If the tires are original to your vehicle, your owner’s manual will tell you when to rotate. If they are replacements, the shop that installed them will recommend a schedule.

Being aware of the age of your tires is essential for safety. Because aged tires can deteriorate from the inside, it is recommended that tires over six years old not be used. Federal regulations require that a DOT Tire Identification Number be branded on the tire’s sidewall. At the end of the ID number is the week and year of the tire’s production: 2309 or 239 means the 23rd week of 2009. Be aware of the age of your tires and replace accordingly.

These simple tips require little time when compared to the consequences of ignoring them. Proper tire maintenance is just one more step toward making sure your vehicle runs properly and safely.

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