Your vehicle’s tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road. Despite this critical role, tire maintenance is often overlooked until a problem occurs. Proper tire maintenance not only extends the life of your tires—saving you money in the long run—but also significantly improves your vehicle’s safety, handling, and fuel efficiency.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), vehicles with underinflated tires are three times more likely to be involved in a crash related to tire issues. Additionally, properly maintained tires can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3%, which translates to substantial savings over time.
In this comprehensive tire maintenance guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tire maintenance, from routine checks to seasonal care, helping you stay safe on the road while maximizing your tire investment.
Tire Maintenance Guide
Performing the following tire maintenance can help you catch potential issues early:
Regular Tire Pressure Checks: The Foundation of Tire Care
Why Proper Tire Pressure Is Critical
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is perhaps the most important aspect of tire maintenance. When tires are underinflated, more of the tire’s surface area contacts the road, increasing friction and causing:
- Faster tread wear, particularly on the outer edges
- Reduced fuel efficiency (up to 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop)
- Poor handling and increased stopping distances
- Higher risk of tire failure and blowouts
Conversely, overinflated tires have less contact with the road, leading to:
- Uneven wear concentrated in the center of the tread
- A harsher ride with more vibrations
- Decreased traction, especially on wet roads
- Increased vulnerability to damage from road hazards
How to Check Tire Pressure Correctly?
To ensure your tires are properly inflated:
Use a quality tire pressure gauge
Digital gauges typically provide more accurate readings than pencil-type gauges.
Check pressure when tires are cold
Measure tire pressure in the morning before driving or at least three hours after driving. Hot tires can show pressure readings 3-5 PSI higher than cold tires.
Find the recommended pressure
Locate the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure on the driver’s side door jamb, fuel door, or owner’s manual. Don’t use the PSI number on the tire sidewall—that’s the maximum pressure, not the recommended pressure.
Check all tires, including the spare
Don’t forget to maintain proper pressure in your spare tire as well.
Add air as needed
If pressure is low, add air in short bursts, checking pressure between each addition.
Check monthly and before long trips
Temperature changes affect tire pressure (approximately 1 PSI change for every 10°F), so regular checks are necessary.
Seasonal Considerations for Tire Pressure
As temperatures fluctuate with the seasons, so does your tire pressure. For every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature, tire pressure decreases by about 1 PSI. This means that as we transition from summer to fall and winter, tire pressure naturally decreases. Conversely, as temperatures rise in spring and summer, tire pressure increases.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in modern vehicles will alert you if pressure drops significantly, but it typically only activates when pressure is 25% below the recommended level—by which point tire performance has already been compromised. Regular manual checks remain essential, especially during seasonal transitions.
Tire Rotation: Ensuring Even Wear
The Importance of Regular Rotation
Different positions on your vehicle wear tires at different rates. Front tires typically wear faster, especially on front-wheel-drive vehicles where they handle both power delivery and most of the braking and steering forces. Rotation helps:
- Extend overall tire life by distributing wear more evenly
- Maintain consistent handling and traction
- Reduce noise and vibration caused by uneven wear patterns
- Keep tire performance levels balanced across all four corners
Rotation Patterns and Frequency
The optimal rotation pattern depends on your vehicle and tire type:
- For non-directional tires on front-wheel-drive vehicles: Move front tires to the rear in the same left/right position, and cross the rear tires to the opposite sides at the front.
- For non-directional tires on rear-wheel-drive vehicles: Move rear tires to the front in the same left/right position, and cross the front tires to the opposite sides at the rear.
- For directional tires: Simply swap front and rear on the same side (left front to left rear, right front to right rear).
- For vehicles with different-sized tires front and rear: Rotation is usually limited to side-to-side.
Most manufacturers recommend rotating tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, though check your owner’s manual for vehicle-specific guidance. A good rule of thumb is to rotate your tires with every other oil change.
Read the article “Why Tire Rotation is Important And How to Rotate Your Tires Properly?” to learn more about tire rotation.
Wheel Alignment: The Precision Factor
Signs You Need an Alignment
Proper wheel alignment ensures that your tires meet the road at the correct angle, optimizing handling and minimizing uneven wear. Signs that your alignment might be off include:
- Vehicle pulling to one side during straight-line driving
- Uneven or rapid tire wear
- Steering wheel not centered when driving straight
- Increased steering wheel vibration
- Squealing tires, especially in turns
When to Get an Alignment
Consider getting an alignment:
- Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles as preventative maintenance
- When you purchase new tires
- After hitting a major pothole or curb
- Following an accident, even a minor one
- When replacing suspension components
- If you notice any of the warning signs listed above
A proper alignment adjusts three main angles:
- Camber: The inward or outward angle of the tire when viewed from the front
- Caster: The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side
- Toe: The direction the tires point relative to the centerline of the vehicle
Professional alignment typically costs $75-$200 but can save hundreds in premature tire replacement costs.
Tire Tread Depth: Monitoring Your Grip
Understanding Tread Depth
Tire tread provides the grip needed for traction, especially on wet or slippery roads. As tread wears down, your tire’s ability to channel water away decreases, increasing the risk of hydroplaning and reducing braking capability.
New tires typically have a tread depth of 10/32 to 12/32 inches (8-10mm). In most states, tires are legally considered worn out at 2/32 of an inch (1.6mm), though in wet climates, replacement at 4/32 inch (3.2mm) is recommended for safety.
How to Check Your Tread Depth
Several methods exist to check tread depth:
The penny test
Insert a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down into your tire’s tread. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 inch and the tire needs replacement.
The quarter test
Similar to the penny test but using Washington’s head on a quarter check for 4/32 inch of tread, a safer minimum for wet conditions.
Tread wear indicators
Most tires have built-in tread wear bars—raised sections that appear when tread reaches 2/32 inch.
Tread depth gauge
This inexpensive tool provides the most accurate measurement.
Digital tire tread depth scanners
Some modern service centers use digital scanners for precise tread depth analysis across the entire tire surface.
Uneven Tread Wear: What It Tells You
The pattern of wear on your tires can diagnose specific issues:
- Center wear: Typically indicates overinflation
- Edge wear on both sides: Usually signals underinflation
- One-sided edge wear: Often points to alignment issues
- Cupping or scalloping: Suggests suspension problems
- Feathering: Commonly caused by toe alignment issues
Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and extend tire life.
Tire Balancing: The Comfort Factor
Why Balancing Matters
Even minor weight imbalances in tires can cause vibrations at certain speeds and lead to premature wear patterns. Proper balancing:
- Reduces vibration for a smoother ride
- Prevents uneven tire wear
- Reduces strain on suspension components
- Improves fuel efficiency marginally
When to Balance Your Tires
Tires should be balanced:
- When new tires are installed
- During rotation (a good practice, though not always necessary)
- If you feel vibration that varies with speed
- After a repair that might affect weight distribution
- Every 12,000 to 15,000 miles as preventative maintenance
Most tire shops balance tires by adding small weights to the rim to counteract any heavy spots in the tire/wheel assembly. The process typically costs $10-$15 per wheel when done independently of other services.
Seasonal Tire Care
Seasonal Tire Care Summer Tire Maintenance
Hot summer roads can be particularly tough on tires. During summer months:
- Check pressure more frequently, as heat causes pressure to increase
- Inspect for sun damage and dry rot, particularly if your vehicle is parked outside
- Clean tires monthly with mild soap and water to remove road grime and chemicals
- Consider using tire protectant products that include UV blockers
- Be aware that hot asphalt accelerates tread wear
Winter Tire Considerations
In colder climates:
- Switch to winter or all-season tires before temperatures consistently drop below 45°F (7°C)
- Check pressure more often, as cold decreases tire pressure
- Clean tires regularly to remove road salt, which can damage both tires and rims
- Avoid driving on snow tires during warm weather, as the softer compounds wear quickly
- Store off-season tires properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and ozone sources
Proper Tire Storage
Extending the Life of Stored Tires
Whether storing seasonal tires or spare sets, proper storage techniques can significantly extend their life:
Clean thoroughly
Wash with mild soap and water before storage to remove brake dust, road grime, and chemicals.
Avoid direct sunlight
UV rays break down rubber compounds, causing cracking and premature aging.
Control temperature and humidity
Store in a cool, dry location with minimal temperature fluctuations.
Consider tire bags
Specialized tire bags help protect against ozone damage and prevent rubber from drying out.
Store vertically or stacked
If without rims, store vertically. If mounted on rims, stack horizontally or hang from hooks.
Reduce pressure slightly
For long-term storage, reducing pressure by about 10 PSI can reduce stress on the tire structure.
Rotate position periodically
If stored for more than 6 months, rotate the position to prevent flat spotting.
Properly stored tires can remain viable for up to 6 years, though rubber compounds still age even when not in use.
DIY vs. Professional Tire Maintenance
What You Can Do Yourself
Many aspects of tire maintenance can be handled without professional help:
- Regular pressure checks and inflation adjustments
- Visual inspections for damage or unusual wear
- Tread depth checks
- Basic cleaning and protection
- Seasonal tire swaps if you have the proper equipment
When to Seek Professional Help
Some maintenance tasks are best left to professionals:
- Wheel balancing and alignment
- Fixing punctures or damage
- Breaking down tires from rims
- Diagnosing complex wear patterns or vibration issues
- TPMS sensor replacement or reprogramming
Most tire shops offer free pressure checks and inspections, making it easy to get professional eyes on your tires regularly.
Cost-Saving Tire Maintenance Tips
Maximizing Your Tire Investment
Quality tires represent a significant investment. These practices help maximize their value:
Document all maintenance
Keep records of rotations, alignments, and balancing to ensure regular service and warranty coverage.
Address issues immediately
Small problems become big problems—and expenses—when ignored.
Compare warranty terms
When purchasing new tires, compare not just price but warranty terms, which can significantly affect long-term value.
Consider road hazard protection
This additional coverage can save substantial money if you frequently drive in areas with poor road conditions.
Maintain your vehicle
Suspension, brake, and steering issues directly impact tire life.
Adjust driving habits
Aggressive acceleration, braking, and cornering dramatically increase tire wear.
Lighten your load
Removing unnecessary weight from your vehicle reduces stress on tires.
The average set of quality tires costs $600-$1,200. With proper maintenance, you might extend their life from 40,000 miles to 60,000+ miles—a substantial return on the time invested in basic care.
Environmentally Responsible Tire Practices
Eco-Friendly Tire Maintenance
Proper tire maintenance isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s good for the planet:
- Well-maintained tires improve fuel efficiency, reducing carbon emissions
- Extending tire life means fewer tires in landfills
- Proper inflation reduces rolling resistance and fuel consumption
- Regular rotation and balancing reduce the resources needed for premature replacement
Recycling and Disposal
When tires do reach the end of their life:
- Never dispose of tires in regular trash or dump illegally
- Use manufacturer take-back programs when available
- Locate local tire recycling facilities
- Consider retailers that offer recycling services with new tire purchases
- Explore upcycling options for creative reuse
Conclusion: The Long-Term Benefits of Tire Care
A consistent tire maintenance routine delivers multiple benefits:
- Enhanced safety for you and your passengers
- Financial savings through extended tire life and improved fuel economy
- Better performance with optimal handling and traction
- Environmental benefits from reduced resource consumption and waste
- Improved comfort with reduced noise and vibration
- Peace of mind on long trips and in adverse conditions
By incorporating these maintenance practices into your regular vehicle care routine, you’re not just maintaining tires—you’re investing in safety, efficiency, and reliability for every mile you drive.
Remember that the small, consistent actions of checking pressure, rotating tires, and addressing minor issues before they become major ones will pay dividends in both the short and long term. Your tires literally carry the weight of your vehicle and everyone in it; giving them the attention they deserve is one of the smartest investments you can make as a vehicle owner.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual and a qualified tire professional for guidance specific to your vehicle and driving conditions.
