|
|
(ARA) - With nearly 200 million drivers in the United States, it’s no secret that Americans love to move on the open road. But stubbornly high gas prices are forcing motorists to put extra care into their vehicles.
One important part of car maintenance that too many Americans take for granted is tire care. In a 2006 Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) survey conducted by FrederickPolls, only 19 percent of drivers said they knew how to properly check their tire pressure.
This common oversight not only puts a strain on motorists’ tires, but also their wallets. Properly inflated tires could save motorists up to 9 cents per gallon, according to the U.S. Energy Department.
The RMA recommends four easy tire care tips that can keep you and your car safe on the road and save you money at the pump.
1) Keep a pulse on tire pressure. Use a tire gauge to check your tire pressure at least once a month. Under-inflated tires lower gas mileage and shorten tire life. Worse, it can cause tire damage that may lead to failure. Remember to check the vehicle owner’s manual or tire information sticker on the driver’s door for the right pressure – don’t use the pressure on the tire sidewall.
2) Pesky Potholes. Hit a pothole and you might notice your car pulling to one side. It could be a sign that your vehicle needs a wheel alignment, which can safeguard your tire against irregular wear and tear.
3) Rotate tires every 6,000 miles. Treat your tires as a team and rotate them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to help your tires wear evenly and optimize their longevity.
4) Bald Ain’t Beautiful. Bald tires are dangerous! To avoid skidding and hydroplaning be sure to change your tires when the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch. Put a penny to the test – place one in a tire tread groove upside down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for a new tire.
“Basic tire care is simple and only takes a few minutes each month,” said Donald B. Shea, RMA president and CEO. “Properly maintained tires will help maximize safety, fuel efficiency and tire life.”
Being tire smart makes “¢ents.” For more information about tire care and maintenance, visit www.betiresmart.org.
Courtesy of ARA Content