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(NewsUSA) - If you're like most drivers, you consider yourself to be a responsible vehicle owner. Whether it's obeying traffic laws, buckling up, renewing your driver's license on time or taking your vehicle in for routine service at the manufacturer's recommended mileage intervals, you've got it covered, right?
Well, many drivers, including responsible ones, often overlook tire maintenance-a crucial component of car care. Your vehicle's tires are more than just another car part. These highly engineered constructions of rubber and steel are the only things that stand between your car and the road, making them important to your safety.
The wet weather that marks the fall and winter seasons makes tire maintenance even more essential. And if safety isn't enough to get you thinking about your wheels, properly inflated tires can improve your gas mileage and save you money at the pump.
Firestone Complete Auto Care offers these tire-maintenance tips to keep you safely rolling.
* Air up: While you're waiting for your vehicle's gas tank to fill up, take those extra few minutes to grab your tire gauge and check the pressure of your tires. It is important to note that tire pressures can only be accurately checked when your vehicle has been driven less than one mile or has been stationary for at least three hours. By checking either the owner's manual or the sticker on the door jamb or glove box door, you'll find the tire inflation number that's best for your vehicle.
* Tread check: Examine the tread on your tires once a month-your tread should be at least 2/32 inch. Give it the penny test by inserting a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tread is worn, and the tire needs to be replaced.
* Rotate regularly: If you're checking your tire pressure and tread regularly, you're on the right track. However, there's still another component of responsible tire maintenance that you should be aware of. Your tires should be rotated on a regular basis according to the vehicle manufacturer's scheduled maintenance recommendations to ensure they wear evenly, last longer and provide a safer ride.
For more information or tire maintenance tips, visit
www.firestonecompleteautocare.com.