When it comes to staying safe on the road during summer, your tires do more than just roll—they support your vehicle’s weight, affect your braking distance, and provide the traction you need for smooth handling. With rising pavement temperatures, long road trips, and increased vehicle loads, summer puts extra stress on your tires. That’s why regular tire maintenance is essential to keeping your car safe, efficient, and road-trip ready.
Check Tire Pressure Often
Tire pressure isn’t something you can set and forget—especially in the summer. Heat causes air to expand, which means your tire pressure can fluctuate as temperatures rise and fall. Overinflated tires can wear unevenly and reduce your grip on the road, while underinflated tires can overheat and increase the risk of a blowout.
To stay safe, check your tire pressure at least once a month and before any long trips. Always check it when the tires are cold, and adjust the PSI to match your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations—usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
Inspect Tread Depth and Wear
Your tire tread helps channel water away during wet conditions and keeps you planted on hot, dry roads. Worn-out or uneven tread makes it harder to stop quickly or maintain control—especially in sudden summer storms.
You can check your tread depth using the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see all of his head, it’s time for new tires. Also, keep an eye out for uneven wear, which could point to alignment or suspension issues.
Rotate, Balance, and Align
Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps them wear evenly and last longer. Balancing ensures your tires spin smoothly, while an alignment check makes sure your wheels are pointing in the right direction. Misalignment can cause your car to pull to one side and wear tires prematurely—something you definitely don’t want during a summer drive.
Final Thoughts
Your tires are your first line of defense when it comes to safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Regular inspections, pressure checks, and service help you avoid unexpected blowouts and make every mile of summer driving smoother and safer. Take care of your tires, and they’ll take care of you on the road ahead.