Avoiding Tire Damage: 5 Common Culprits
If you’ve been driving for any length of time, you’ve probably experienced that sinking feeling that comes when you realize your tire has gone flat. There are many possible causes for a flat or other types of damage to your tires; some are avoidable, while some are not.
Buying new tires is an expensive purchase we all hope to put off as long as possible. So how can you make your tires last? Take a look at five of the common causes of tire damage and a few ideas on how you can avoid some of these issues.
Can Debris on the Road Harm Your Tires?
Yes. One of the most common causes of tire damage is from road debris. This can be anything from gravel to trash thrown in the street. Any object that can puncture your tire is a hazard. Unfortunately, many of the objects that can damage your tires are too small to be seen from the driver’s seat, so it’s not always possible to avoid this type of damage. What you can do is make sure your tires are in good shape and properly inflated. This makes them less susceptible to damage from road debris.
Can Going Over Speed Bumps Too Fast Damage Your Tires?
Yes. Driving too fast over speed bumps can cause damage to your tires. No matter where you’re driving—over speed bumps or not—the sidewalls should never come in contact with the road. When you go too fast over a speed bump, it forces the sides of the tires down and this can cause the sidewalls to make contact with the road which can lead to serious damage to your tires.
Can Overinflating Your Tires Cause Damage?
Yes. This is a common cause of tire damage, and it is easy to avoid. First, you need to know the recommended PSI for your vehicle. Look in the manual for the maker’s suggested cold tire pressure. This is the level at which you should try to keep your tires. If they are overinflated, they become stiffer and less able to deal with debris, bumps against the curb, and other road hazards. Plus, when the tires are overinflated, people in the vehicle will feel every bump more acutely. Keeping your tire pressure at the proper level not only protects your tires, but it provides a more enjoyable ride as well.
Does Failing to Rotate Your Tires Lead to Damage?
Yes. Failing to rotate your tires leads to premature wear and diminishes the life of your tires. This is another example of tire damage that is preventable. When you consider the cost of new tires, it’s easy to see why it’s worth spending an hour or so at the shop getting your tires rotated according to the suggested schedule, which is typically every six months or every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.
Do Cleaning Products Harm Your Tires?
Sometimes. Are you one of those drivers who likes to keep your car meticulously clean right down to putting a wet-look shine on your tires? There are several products on the market to help you achieve that. While these products do not typically cause harm to the tires, they can damage the wheel finish if used incorrectly or too frequently. One tip to avoid harming the finish is to apply the product to a towel and then wipe it on to your tires rather than spraying it directly on the tires.
Whether you need a new tire from our service center or you’re looking for your next car or truck, Owings Auto can help. We provide exceptional service and competitive prices and do what it takes to earn the trust of our service and sales customers.